DSM to close Netherlands unit due to safety issues

04 March 2008 09:17  [Source: ICIS news]

MUMBAI (ICIS news)--DSM is planning to close its agro-chemicals plant in IJmuiden in the Netherlands due the government's decision to terminate the transportation of ammonia by rail between Geleen and IJmuiden port because of safety issues, the company said on Tuesday.

The company would close its IJmuiden site from 1 January 2010, with the loss of 120 jobs, it said, adding the government would compensate it for its losses.

One of the company's nitric acid plants, which is currently located in IJmuiden, will be relocated to Geleen.

“DSM is exploring the possibility of expanding fertilizer production in Geleen and thus largely compensating for the loss of capacity in IJmuiden,” the company said.

The government conducted chain studies in which they analysed the problems involved in the transport and storage of hazardous substances with the aim of mitigating these problems where possible, it said.

"The agreement in principle is an example of the way in which the Dutch government and Dutch industry are joining forces to make the Netherlands an even safer place regarding the transport of hazardous substances," the company said.

The agreement was subject to relevant approval and advice procedures, it added.

By: Isha Jha
+65 6780 4359

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