Letters to The Editor

Letter to the Editor: Response to Today's Sunbeam

To the Editor:

Terrance Dopp's  article, "Corzine plans tighter chemical security," (Oct. 21) fails to mention the many achievements and precedent setting security initiatives of the chemistry industry, and doesn’t provide any public good by listing company names, their location and what chemicals they or may not have onsite.
 
The business of chemistry has not waited for legislation or an executive order to secure our plants and ensure the well-being of our workers and our communities. Since 9/11, our plants in New Jersey have spent more than $100 million in security improvements.  Our facilities have undergone extensive site vulnerability assessments, and based on the findings each facility has worked with security experts and government officials to augment the security at their facilities. In fact, many of our member companies are required by state and federal law to provide a copy of each facility’s emergency response plan to the appropriate first responders in their area. These plans are continuously evaluated, tested and changed when necessary to integrate improved technology and processes, or to address new threats.
 
The companies in the business of chemistry are doing their best to prevent, prepare and respond to any potential threat. The industry has invested heavily in state-of-the-art technology, safety protocols, and security enhancements at our plants and we will continue to provide the essential products we all count on in a safe, environmentally sound and secure manner.

Sincerely,
Hal Bozarth
Executive Director
Chemistry Council of New Jersey

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