March 6, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com – Fertilizer Manufacturer Fined $400K: The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has fined Two Rivers Terminal LLC $394,200 for safety violations that led to a worker’s death at its Pasco facility. The fertilizer manufacturer failed to implement critical safety measures, resulting in a preventable tragedy.
The case has drawn statewide attention as the fertilizer manufacturer fined by L&I has a documented history of workplace safety problems. Regulators emphasized that this penalty sends a strong message about employer responsibility, especially in high-risk industries where ignoring safety standards can have deadly consequences.
Worker Dies from Toxic Hydrogen Sulfide Exposure
On June 7, 2024, surveillance footage captured Viktor Voloshin, 56, entering a tanker truck to clean it. Toxic hydrogen sulfide gas from fertilizer residue filled the enclosed space, leading to his sudden death. Voloshin, a dedicated employee of 11 years and father of 12, lost his life due to the company’s failure to enforce proper safety protocols.
The tragedy became a central factor in why the fertilizer manufacturer was fined by Washington L&I. Investigators determined that inadequate training, lack of air monitoring, and poor hazard prevention directly contributed to Voloshin’s preventable death. Regulators stressed that stricter compliance with confined-space safety standards could have averted the fatal exposure.
Company’s History of Safety Violations
L&I cited Two Rivers Terminal for multiple willful and repeat violations, including a lack of air monitoring, inadequate ventilation, and failure to provide protective gear. This isn’t the company’s first penalty. It previously faced fines totaling $672,320, which remain under appeal. Now, the company is also contesting the latest penalties, despite its longstanding history of safety infractions.
Regulators pointed out that the company’s pattern of repeat violations reflects a systemic failure to prioritize worker safety. By disputing penalties instead of addressing hazardous conditions, the company has shown a disregard for preventive measures that could save lives. Officials also warned that escalating fines and stricter oversight may be necessary if compliance issues continue.
Where Do the Fines Go?
The fines will be directed to the workers’ compensation supplemental pension fund, which provides financial support for injured workers and their families.
According to Washington L&I, this fund plays a vital role in ensuring that workers and their dependents receive benefits when workplace injuries or fatalities occur. Penalties collected from employers who violate safety standards not only serve as a deterrent but also strengthen the fund’s ability to provide long-term financial security for families affected by preventable workplace tragedies.
Source: Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
FAQs: Why the Fertilizer Manufacturer Was Fined $400K
Why was the fertilizer manufacturer fined $400K?
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries fined the fertilizer manufacturer for willful safety violations that led to a worker’s death.
What safety failures led to the fertilizer manufacturer being fined?
Violations included lack of air monitoring, poor ventilation, and failure to provide protective equipment, which exposed workers to toxic gas.
Has the fertilizer manufacturer been fined before?
Yes. The company has a history of safety violations and previously faced fines totaling $672,320, which remain under appeal.
Where will the fines from the fertilizer manufacturer go?
The penalties will be directed to the workers’ compensation supplemental pension fund, which supports injured workers and their families.
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