Plastics plant owner asks for time to comply with federal orders to end benzene leaks

OTTAWA — The owners of an Ontario plastics plant that’s been emitting dangerous levels of the cancer-causing chemical benzene say they need more time to comply with federal rules.

In mid-May, Environment Canada set out tougher air quality standards in the Sarnia, Ont., area in a move targeted at Ineos Styrolution.

Now, the company says there are potential safety risks with bringing the facility into compliance.

It issued a statement saying emptying all benzene from its tanks will require meticulous planning and could result in more emissions.