A federal judge approved a $7.8 million settlement to compensate residents and business owners after an explosion at the EQ plant in Apex on Oct. 6 2006.

Attorney Robert Zaytoun says he is pleased with the outcome of the litigation.

"I think three years to the date is an appropriate time for the litigation to end," Zaytoun said.

The legal battle ended with a settlement that pays residents $750 while business owners will receive $2200.

"It's going to reimburse people for the cost, and what they had to go through that night," Randy Wilder said.

Denise Hatzidakis was one of about 17,000 residents who were forced to evacuate their homes in the middle of the night with very little explanation of what was going on. In the meantime, she was unable to open her restaurant for two days and lost out on that income.

"Having our business close -- not knowing when it will open -- it's hard," Hatzidakis said.

The Town of Apex will also receive about $85,000 as part of the deal.

But many residents and business owners agree that this settlement is not just about the money.

"There is going to be hazardous waste that needs to be dealt with in our society," Hatzidakis said. "I just think people who we trust to take care of those, should be held responsible and care for it properly."

Zaytoun says the case set a standard for the entire country.

"The fact that EQ has been held responsible sends a message to them and anybody that handles hazardous wastes materials," Zaytoun said.

To be included in the settlement people must submit claim forms by Oct. 20.

A representative from EQ, Bob Doyle, says the company is also pleased with the outcome.

"It brings a fair resolution and closure to the incident," Doyle said.

To find out more about the settlement or to download a claim form click here.