Robert Peyser, owner of Kessler Thermometer Corp. in West Babylon, pleads guilty to exposing workers to airborne mercury

The owner of a West Babylon company that makes thermometers was sentenced to 3 years' probation on Friday for failing to protect workers who were exposed to airborne mercury.

Robert Peyser, 66, of Bellmore, owner of Kessler Thermometer Corp., could also face up to 364 days in jail if he violates any safety measures during the probation period, prosecutors said.

He pleaded guilty to charges including first-degree reckless endangerment.

Peyser allegedly knowingly exposed workers to airborne mercury during an incident on Aug. 29, 2022, authorities said. He also failed to provide proper ventilation and appropriate personal protective gear, they said.

Once spilled, mercury can vaporize into the air if not cleaned properly, authorities said.

Several employees received medical treatment after the incident and exhibited symptoms consistent with mercury poisoning, according to prosecutors.

Peyser, appearing in Suffolk County Criminal Court in Central Islip, apologized for the incident and said he was merely following the same procedures as the previous owner of the factory.

"Had I known better I would have taken immediate action, "he said.

But some of the workers and their relatives said in court they had suffered serious health consequences and that Peyser deserved a severe punishment.

"Bob Peyser, you prioritized profit over people — including immigrants — who dedicated decades of our lives to growing your company at great personal cost," one worker, Wanda Pawlowska, said in court.

"Because of your recklessness, me, my sister and others are left with devastating health consequences that may last a lifetime," she said.