Attorney General Joseph A. Foster and New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services ("DES") Assistant Commissioner Clark Freise announced today that the State has settled with New Hampshire Ball Bearings, Inc. ("NHBB") for alleged hazardous waste violations that the State believes resulted in an explosion in February of 2014. The explosion occurred at the NHBB facility in Peterborough, NH. NHBB will be assessed a total civil penalty of $150,000.

The State alleged that a tank containing acid used to treat precision ball bearings was emptied into a drum that may have contained an incompatible substance like isopropyl alcohol. A reaction between these substances caused pressure to build up inside the sealed drum, leading to a violent explosion.

As part of the settlement, NHBB will use $5,000 to help local first responders. NHBB voluntarily undertook a similar program shortly after the accident and reports that it was well-received in the community. The remaining $145,000 will go to a dedicated hazardous waste fund held by the State.

Joseph Foster said: "NHBB promptly resolved the compliance issues associated with this unfortunate accident. We anticipate that they will continue to be a responsible partner in protecting the safety of NHBB employees and the welfare of the community."

For more information, contact Senior Assistant Attorney General K. Allen Brooks at 271-3679.