(23 June 2017 –Bangkok) --Referring to the accident at a duck processing plant on Bangna-Trat Road on 23 June 2017 that claimed 5 lives, Mr.Parisothat Punnabhum, Senior Executive Vice President for human resources of Charoen Pokphand Foods PLC (CPF), expressed deepest sorrow to the victims' families on behalf of the company.

He said that CPF would extend supports to the families beyond the company's prescribed practices. To ease their difficulties, children in school age will receive scholarships to pursue bachelor degrees. At this point, the company had made contacts with the families and transported the dead bodies for religious ceremonies. 

The statement followed the accident at 10am on 23 June at the plant's wastewater treatment pond.   

Parisothat said that the incident took place at a restricted area clearly specified as a danger zone which required entry permission. It was known that the pond could yield a gas causing unconsciousness. A possibility was that the visitor accidentally plunged into the pond and the guiding officer pulled him up with best efforts. Three officers outside rushed in, hearing the scream for help. All the five lost their lives. However, the incident remained under police investigation. 

CPF insisted that the factory upholds the safety, health and environment standards, on top of strict measures to prevent accidents inside the premise and the wastewater pond. Safety drills have been conducted continuously. 

The safety measures are systematically implemented, starting with the thorough inspection of safety officers to identify risks and occupational safety. Risk areas are then defined restricted areas which demand special measures such as entry permission. All areas are regularly inspected. However, this accident occurred and this is a great loss to the company.