Firms admit guilt over fatal factory explosion

LONDON, Aug 17 (Reuters) The operators of a Glasgow plastics factory where nine people were killed in a 2004 explosion admitted breaching health and safety laws today, Scotland's Crown Office said.

Up to 40 other workers of ICL Plastics Limited and ICL Tech Limited were injured after the May 11 blast which flattened the factory in the Maryhill area.

The companies, which pleaded guilty to four health and safety charges in Glasgow's High Court, will be sentenced later this month.

''Nine people lost their lives as a result of the explosion in Maryhill. Many more will be forever affected,'' said Catherine Dyer, Procurator Fiscal for Glasgow.

''Survivors and the families of victims are now spared the additional trauma and uncertainty of a trial.'' The morning explosion which rocked Scotland's largest city prompted a huge emergency response, with rescuers using thermal imaging equipment and special hydraulic supports to find survivors trapped under the rubble.

Some local people likened the devastation to the results of an earthquake. The explosion shattered windows in nearby buildings and flying debris crushed cars parked in surrounding streets.

The families of those killed said no penalty imposed on the companies could bring their loved ones back.

''There is no explanation that could satisfactorily or rationally justify why nine people left for work never to return again,'' they said.

They called for a public inquiry to provide answers to why the breaches had occurred and to help to prevent any future such incidents.

''This will be a difficult time for all concerned, bringing to the fore as it must, the memory of that terrible day,'' the two firms said in a statement.

''There are no adequate words to express our feeling of deep sadness, and the heartfelt sympathies of all within the companies are with the families who lost a loved one, and those who were injured.'' REUTERS ARB KN1704