Rayong: Ten Thai steel associations have united in opposition to the reopening of a steel plant in Rayong, arguing for stricter safety standards and transparent processes. The coalition, led by Mr. Nava Chantanasurakorn, submitted a formal letter to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, emphasizing the need for reinforced safety measures and fair competition in the industry.
According to Thai News Agency, the letter calls for the government to impose tighter controls on steel factories previously closed due to safety and environmental concerns. The associations are particularly worried about the potential return of substandard steel into the market, which could compromise public safety and create unfair competition for compliant businesses. They argue that the reopening of such factories should only occur after these facilities meet stringent Thai Industrial Standards (TIS).
Inspection reports from the Ministry of Industry highlight issues with the suspended factories, which utilized induction furnaces (IF) that lacked proper systems to control impurities. This deficiency often resulted in steel that failed to meet TIS requirements. The associations propose that reopening permissions should be contingent upon adherence to specific TIS clauses regarding production processes and materials.
The associations further stress the importance of the purification process in steel production, linking past structural failures, such as the collapse of the Office of the Auditor General building, to substandard materials. They advocate for the use of advanced techniques that ensure steel quality and safety, with rigorous inspections by the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) before any factory resumes operations.
The coalition also raises issues concerning the premature lifting of a seizure order on reinforced concrete steel bars, despite pending investigations by the Minister of Industry. The Trade Competition Commission (TCC) is currently reviewing whether these actions may violate trade competition laws.
In addition, the factory in question is under scrutiny by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for allegedly exceeding reported quantities of hazardous substances. The Board of Investment (BOI) has temporarily revoked its investment benefits due to legal violations. These developments further underscore the associations' demand for strict compliance with TIS and related laws to ensure transparency and industry sustainability.
The timeline of past incidents, including fires, seizures, and legal battles, underscores the urgency of the associations' demands. They advocate for a comprehensive review process involving technical evaluations by TISI and adherence to environmental impact assessments before any reopening is permitted.
In light of these concerns, the associations are pressing for the revocation of business closure orders and the establishment of more rigorous licensing processes for steel plants seeking to resume operations. The goal is to foster a fair and safe steel industry in Thailand, free from the risks posed by substandard practices.