Judge Rules Against Demand for More Safety Measures at Hanford Tank Farms

Judge Thomas Rice said his ruling does not mean the vapor issue at the Hanford Tank Farms that has reportedly sickened workers is not a serious issue. Nor does it mean efforts should not continue to improve safety.

The ruling, handed down this week by the Federal Judge, was done so because Rice said the plaintiffs failed to make a "clear showing," to prove that an "imminent and substantial endangerment to health" may exist at the farms, according to KNDU-TV.

WA State Attorney General Bob Ferguson had filed a preliminary injunction, on behalf of Union 598 and the environmental group Hanford Challenge, that would have forced immediate additional safety steps to be implemented. Although the numbers vary, depending upon reports, 48-50 workers have been treated for various physical ailments after coming in contact with vapors emitted from waste storage tanks at the tank farm.

The judge in his ruling said he recognized Washington River Protection Services (WRPS) for the efforts made so far to put "significant" protective measures in place.

To see the specific safety features demanded by the injunction that was first filed this summer, click here to see the Attorney General's filing.