ABSTRACT
When a specialized industry is located in a community, it is imperative for that community to be prepared for the possibility of an emergency rescue operation by maintaining reserves of specialized personnel and equipment. Having such resources available can make a difference in life or death rescue operations. This chapter presents a case study that provides an example of why it is so important to have building codes and enforce them. If building codes had been enforced, then the fire and safety violations would have forced the company to comply with the ordinances, or the city could have had the leverage to close the factory for noncompliance. The case study demonstrates what can go terribly wrong when safety precautions and safety standards are below industry standards. It also points out that economic development does not justify tolerating conditions that can be dangerous for the population.
