For breaches of regulations: government will request the closure of burned company in Quilicura

The government has formally requested the closure of Panimex Química, a chemical company located in Quilicura, Metropolitan Region, following a severe fire that began late Tuesday night. The request comes after multiple violations of safety regulations were identified during the incident, according to Health Minister May Chomali. She announced that an investigation will be launched and a substantial fine imposed as part of the administrative action against the firm. The fire, which continues to be fought by firefighters, started at the facility producing plasticizers, phthalic anhydride, and fumaric acid, among other chemicals used in plastics, paints, and industrial materials. This marks the third such incident involving the company, with officials noting potential regulatory breaches. Chomali stated that the company’s failure to adhere to basic safety standards justifies the proposed closure. Authorities have confirmed that the smoke emitted during the blaze contains toxic substances, prompting immediate public health concerns. As a result, the presidential delegate for the Metropolitan Region, Germán Codina, ordered the suspension of classes for Wednesday throughout Quilicura. The decision was made following an assessment by the Regional Health Director, who warned of the risks posed to students due to the hazardous environment created by the fire. Codina explained that the measure applies to all schools, public and private, in the commune. He emphasized that the toxic fumes, likely to spread further in the coming hours, could pose serious health threats, particularly to children engaged in physical activities. The order was communicated through the SLEP Los Libertadores, responsible for managing educational institutions in the area. Quilicura Mayor Paulina Bobadilla confirmed the suspension would affect all educational establishments within her jurisdiction. She reiterated that both public and private schools are included in the directive. Meanwhile, firefighters continue their efforts to contain the blaze, which is expected to last for several more hours. Despite containment efforts, the situation remains volatile, with ongoing operations scheduled well into the night. The incident highlights broader issues surrounding industrial safety and environmental regulation in the region. Panimex Química, situated at the intersection of President Eduardo Frei Montalva Avenue and Las Esteras Sur, has faced scrutiny over its operational practices. Previous incidents suggest a pattern of non-compliance, raising questions about oversight and enforcement mechanisms. Local authorities have called for stricter adherence to safety protocols to prevent future occurrences. Community members and educators have expressed concern over the impact of the fire on daily life and education. With schools closed, parents face logistical challenges, while students lose valuable learning time. Environmental groups have also raised alarms about the long-term effects of chemical emissions on air quality and local ecosystems. These concerns underscore the need for comprehensive reviews of industrial safety measures and emergency response strategies. As the situation unfolds, officials remain focused on mitigating immediate dangers while addressing underlying systemic issues. The outcome of the regulatory review and potential legal actions against Panimex Química will determine whether the company faces permanent shutdown or corrective measures. For now, the community waits for clarity on how these developments will shape future policies and protections.