Hungarian authorities have fined MOL Petrochemicals 38 million forints, about $120,000, following an investigation into safety violations linked to a deadly explosion at the company’s chemical plant in Tiszaújváros.
The explosion occurred on May 22, 2026, during the restart of the facility’s Olefin-1 unit after maintenance work. The incident killed one worker and injured 11 others, including four who suffered serious injuries.
Hungary’s occupational safety authority concluded that parts of the affected facility did not have adequate equipment to detect and warn workers about dangerous conditions or safely shut down operations when necessary. Authorities subsequently ordered MOL Petrochemicals to review its safety systems and strengthen maintenance procedures.
The Olefin-1 unit processes hydrocarbons used to produce raw materials for the plastics industry. MOL said shortly after the explosion that firefighters had contained the blaze and that other units at the Tiszaújváros complex remained operational.
The workplace safety investigation was closed on August 31, according to Hungary’s Ministry of Social and Family Affairs. Along with the financial penalty, authorities required the company to review its technological and safety systems, improve worker information and training, update its risk assessment and introduce scheduled maintenance for specified pipelines, pipe sections and equipment.
The findings add to scrutiny of safety procedures at large industrial facilities, particularly during periods when plants are restarted following maintenance. Such operations can involve the reintroduction of hydrocarbons into complex systems operating under high temperatures and pressures.
MOL Petrochemicals has also conducted its own investigation into the circumstances surrounding the explosion. Police separately opened an investigation into suspected negligent endangerment in the workplace resulting in death.
The Hungarian authorities’ decision underscores the continuing responsibility of industrial operators to maintain adequate safety systems and ensure workers are protected from potentially hazardous conditions.
The case is expected to remain under scrutiny as authorities and investigators examine whether further responsibility should be assigned in connection with the fatal incident.
Swifteradio.com
