Explosion at Carbon Fiber Plant Leads to $1.3 Million Fine

The Washington state Department of Labor & Industries assessed $1.3 million in penalties following an investigation into a July 2015 explosion at a carbon fiber production plant in Newport that injured 17 workers. The department said its nearly six-month investigation determined the explosion could have been prevented if Zodiac Cabin & Structures Support LLC used required safety interlocks and safeguards on a curing oven. Carbon fiber is manufactured by applying resin to fabric and using high heat to cure and harden the resin.  L&I said the resins are highly flammable,...