January 14, 2005
Asahi Kasei Corporation

Six employees were taken to the hospital, one with a wrist fracture and five with impaired hearing. Of the six, two are employees of Asahi Kasei Chemicals and the other four are employees of affiliated companies which were involved in dismantling the facility.

The cause of the explosion is being investigated by the Police and Fire Departments. We are concentrating efforts on facilitating this investigation, and are committed to instituting measures which will ensure against any recurrence.

No other facilities were affected, and there will be no effect on the supply of any products.