South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has issued a public safety advisory after the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services ordered the Silfab Solar facility in York County to halt operations. The order follows two chemical incidents at the facility earlier this week.
The first incident involved the release of potassium hydroxide, and a second incident involved hydrofluoric acid. The facility is located about 1,300 feet from Flint Hill Elementary and Middle School, which has raised concerns among families and local residents.
Attorney General Wilson had previously requested information from Silfab regarding its safety protocols and the risks associated with operating an industrial facility that uses chemicals near a school.
“South Carolina families deserve answers,” said Attorney General Wilson. “This is now the second chemical incident in a matter of days at a facility located just over a thousand feet from a school. Parents should never have to worry about dangerous chemical releases happening near their children’s classrooms.”
The Department of Environmental Services has directed Silfab to stop operations while it investigates the company’s risk management systems and procedures for handling chemicals.
Wilson’s office continues to collect information on these incidents and monitor developments, responding to concerns from parents and community members. He has also contacted the director of the Environmental Protection Agency about these chemical spills.
“This is exactly why transparency and accountability are essential,” Wilson continued. “Until the public has clear answers and regulators can confirm this facility is operating safely, operations should remain shut down. The safety of South Carolina families must always come first.”
Residents who have questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services by phone or through their website at www.des.sc.gov. Members of the public with relevant information are also asked to share tips with authorities as investigations continue.
The South Carolina Attorney General acts as the state’s primary legal advocate, enforcing laws related to consumer protection, securities, and criminal prosecutions in collaboration with law enforcement agencies across South Carolina (official website). Alan Wilson currently leads these efforts as head of the office (official website).
