Image courtesy of Givaudan
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board sent a team of investigators to Louisville, to investigate the fatal explosion that occurred Nov. 12, at the Givaudan Sense Colour facility in Louisville. Two employees were killed and 11 others were injured by the explosion.
CSB Chairperson Steve Owens said, “The CSB began an initial inquiry into this terrible incident last week when it happened and collected information from local officials, the ATF, and the company itself. We are now deploying an investigative team to the scene to conduct formal interviews, document the incident site, and gather important evidence to help ensure that a tragedy like this does not happen again.”
Also Read: EPA Cleaning Hazmat from Mich. Fire, Explosion
The CSB’s six-person team arrived onsite Nov. 19. According to the company, in addition to the fatalities, serious injuries, and damage to the facility itself, a section of the pressure vessel was ejected beyond the fence line and damaged a residential unit.
WLKY reports that this is not the first explosion at the site and that overheated cooking equipment that did not properly vent is to blame for the explosion.
“We are aware of reports indicating damage to some homes and buildings near the factory, and we are working closely with first responders to provide support to those impacted,” Givaudan said in a statement. “A comprehensive investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway, and we are cooperating fully with first responders and supporting agencies to understand what happened.
“We extend our gratitude to the emergency services for their heroic response and to the local community members and business owners who have offered their support throughout this challenging time.”
Givaudan is a Switzerland-based company that makes flavor and color additives for the food, beverage, fragrance and beauty industries. The Louisville operation focuses on coloring for soft drinks.
Original post – Copyright © 2024 HazmatNation.com. Externally linked references may hold their own independent copyright not assumed by HazmatNation
