In response to the problem of the frequent detection of toxic cyanide exceeding the standard at Japan Steel's steelworks in Chiba Prefecture, the prefecture summarized the evaluation of the measures presented by the company and issued administrative guidance, saying, "The idea of not releasing harmful substances out as much as possible was weak."
In the Kimitsu area of Japan East Japan Works, problems were discovered one after another, such as the fact that toxic cyanide exceeding the standard had been frequently detected in drains facing Tokyo Bay in the four years up to last year, but they had not been reported to the prefecture.
Based on opinions from experts familiar with chemical substances and compliance, Chiba Prefecture compiled an evaluation of the report on the causes of the accident and countermeasures submitted by the company, and Governor Kumagai gave administrative guidance to Japan Steel on August 4.
In the prefectural evaluation report, he pointed out that the causes of the successive problems were
▽ sloppy risk management and
▽ lack of compliance awareness, and
that "the idea of keeping harmful substances out as much as possible was weak."
On top of that, he said, "The measures shown can be generally evaluated, but we call for systematic and appropriate implementation and further measures," and called for regular audits by third-party departments.
Yuji Nomiyama, director of the To Japan Works, said, "We take this guidance seriously and will firmly promote measures to prevent recurrence and respond appropriately so that we can regain the trust of the local community."