Editorial: Enough evidence for tougher laws

Investigators last week told the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board that human error, poor management and inadequate safety procedures all combined to cause the explosion at Sierra Chemical Co. The two blasts killed four workers and completely destroyed the plant that made explosive boosters for mining companies.

The federal findings follow those of a commission established by Gov. Bob Miller after the explosion. The Nevada Commission on Workplace Safety and Community Protection recommended stricter inspection procedures and giving workers safety instruction in a language they understand. All of the workers at Sierra Chemical were Hispanic and few spoke English, yet all of the instructions were in English.

When the Nevada Legislature meets again this January, strengthening workplace safety laws should be high on its list. Although Miller leaves office before the Legislature meets again, he has directed that bills be drafted to give the state Division of Industrial Relations more authority to regulate plants that manufacture and store explosives.

Another element in securing adequate workplace safety is having enough government inspectors to do their job. The next governor and the 1999 Legislature should increase the staffing levels for agencies with workplace safety oversight so there can be more frequent inspections.

Every reasonable step should be taken to avoid another tragedy such as the one that occurred at Sierra Chemical or the deadly explosion a decade earlier at Pacific Engineering.

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