The operators of a Glasgow plastics factory where nine people were killed in a 2004 explosion admitted breaching health and safety laws today.
Up to 40 other workers of ICL Plastics Limited and ICL Tech Limited were injured after the May 11th explosion, which flattened the factory in the Maryhill area.
The companies, which pleaded guilty to four health and safety charges in Glasgow's High Court, will be sentenced later this month.
The families of those killed said no penalty imposed on the companies could bring their loved ones back.
"There is no explanation that could satisfactorily or rationally justify why nine people left for work never to return again," they said.
Some witnesses likened the devastation caused by the morning explosion to that caused by an earthquake. It shattered windows in nearby buildings, and flying debris crushed cars parked in streets.