A fertilizer company has been fined over $394,000 after a tragic incident led to the death of a worker at their facility. The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries issued the fine to Two Rivers Terminal LLC following the death of 56-year-old Viktor Voloshin at their Pasco site.
The incident occurred on June 7, 2024, when Voloshin entered a tanker truck to clean it. Unfortunately, he was exposed to toxic hydrogen sulfide gas from fertilizer residue, which resulted in his death. Voloshin had worked with the company for 11 years and was a father of 12 children.
The Department cited Two Rivers Terminal for multiple serious safety violations. These included failing to provide necessary air monitoring, proper ventilation, and protective equipment for workers. This is not the first time the company has faced scrutiny; they have a history of safety infractions and are currently appealing previous fines that total $672,320.
The company is now contesting the latest penalties. Fines collected by the state go toward a fund that supports workers’ compensation pensions. This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about workplace safety, particularly in industries dealing with hazardous materials.