Press Release: Chemical fire at a building at Bailey Mine in East Finley

Washington, PA –  The Center for Coalfield Justice (CCJ) is deeply concerned about the chemical fire that broke out early this morning at the Omnis Bailey Plant, located on the CONSOL Energy property in Greene County. The fire has necessitated an extended response from local and regional fire crews and first responders, raising significant environmental and public health concerns.

The structure is owned and operated by Omnis Bailey LLC. CONSOL Energy, which owns and operates the Bailey Mine Complex, is a majority owner of Omnis Bailey LLC.

Consol and Omnis Bailey have not shared information with the public, leading to understandable speculation. First responders don’t know exactly which chemicals they’re battling and being exposed to. The PA DEP must release the Material Safety Data Sheets on the corresponding chemicals immediately.

“We are alarmed by the fire at the Bailey Omnis Plant and the potential dangers it poses to the surrounding communities. Our primary concern is the health and safety of the workers, residents, and first responders in Washington and Greene Counties. We urge immediate and transparent communication from Consol Energy and Omnis Bailey LLC about the nature and extent of the hazardous materials involved and the steps being taken to mitigate any environmental impact. We stand ready to support our community through this crisis and are prepared to advocate for CONSOL and Omnis Bailey LLC to step up for any clean-up and to pay back our volunteer first responders for the significant resources they expended in this response.”  Sarah Martik, Executive Director of the Center for Coalfield Justice (CCJ).

CCJ is actively following this. Our website and social media will be updated as we learn what chemicals are on site and as we learn of any health risks or state response.