Air Products CEO takes security precautions after attack on French plant

Air Products CEO Seifi Ghasemi offered words of sympathy for the victim of Friday's attack at the company's facility in L'Isle-d'Abeau, France,

He also expressed appreciation for the assistance and outpouring of support received from around the world, as the company continues to cooperate with the continuing investigation by French and other authorities.

"I am horrified and saddened by the attack on our facility in France. I believe I speak for all of our Air Products family around the world in expressing our deepest sympathies to the family of the victim of this unspeakable act," said Ghasemi. 

"My heart also goes out to the people who work at the site and their families," he continued. "This incident reinforces that we all need to take safety and security very seriously, every day, and remain vigilant in everything we do. I am very glad to know that all of our employees are safe and accounted for."

Security has been increased at Air Products' locations around the world as a precautionary measure, according to company officials.

Soon after the attack, French authorities and emergency services arrived on site, contained the situation, and the site was secured. All individuals working at the site were evacuated. Air Products' crisis and emergency response teams were activated and are working closely with involved authorities.

"I would like to express my appreciation for the response of the French and other authorities who reacted so quickly to our need. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to other companies, customers, elected officials, and many other citizens of the world who have reached out to Air Products with kind words, well wishes, and offers of assistance," Ghasemi said.

It is unclear at this time the extent of damage to the facility. However, Ghasemi said other facilities are operating normally, and plans are in place for Air Products' customers who received products from the impacted location to continue to be served.