The workers got it on their hands and clothing every day while racing for 2 1/2 months to meet a deadline to get the plant, a crucial part of Iraq's oil infrastructure, up and running.
But the chemical turned out to be sodium dichromate, a substance so dangerous that even limited exposure greatly increases the risk of cancer. Soon, many of the 22 Americans and 100-plus Iraqis began to complain of nosebleeds, ulcers, and shortness of breath. Within weeks, nearly 60 percent exhibited symptoms of exposure, according to the minutes of a meeting of project managers from KBR, the Houston-based construction company in charge of the repairs.
Iraq contractor fights suit over toxic exposure
The confirmed U.S. military death toll in the war with Iran rose to 17 after two...
The United States launched a new round of airstrikes against Iran on July 18, escalating an...
Major General Mohsen Rezaee, a senior Iranian military adviser, has warned that if the US continues...
