Chemicals left in barrels leave workers, neighborhoods at risk

In this week’s Behind the Headlines, we dive into the latest investigation from Raquel Rutledge and Rick Barrett. The reporters examine a group of industrial drum recondition plants, owned in part by Greif Inc., that have disregarded safe practices for handling hazardous materials.

Practices at six facilities have resulted in workers suffering chemical and heat-related burns, injuries form exploding barrels, breathing difficulties and other health problems. The operations have caused at least one big fire in Indianapolis. At the Milwaukee plant, the safety manager and workers said chemical residue was washed down a floor drain.

The story was brought to the attention of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel by a whistleblower who said he couldn’t stand by knowing such egregious practices were common. You’ll hear from him in today’s show as well.