A fatality and multiple employees have been injured in a chemical storage plant fire in Crosby, Texas.
“[The] Fire is extinguished. Fire fighters continue to monitor the scene and extinguish hot spots.”
Harris Co. FMO (@hcfmo) April 2, 2019
In a formal statement from the KMCO, John C. Foley, President and CEO said “There was an incident resulting in an ignition and fire today at KMCO, LLC in Crosby, Texas. We are deeply saddened to confirm at this time that there have been injuries and one fatality. Those injured have been transported for medical treatment. Our hearts and prayers go out to the individuals involved, as well as our first responders, employees and our community. We have activated the company’s emergency response team and incident command center. We are working with local first responders to extinguish the fire. We will give another update as additional information becomes available. We apologize for any inconvenience to residents in the vicinity. The wellbeing of our people, neighbors and the environment remain our top priorities.”
HCFMO is on scene of a plant fire/explosion. Warehouse is currently on fire, trying to determine what products are involved. pic.twitter.com/KxuqkJptRy— Harris Co. FMO (@hcfmo) April 2, 2019
Current understanding is that Isobutylene was the initial cause of the ignition at the KMCO plant. This reaction also ignited an ethanol explosion. As with any flammable chemical or combustible material, health and safety is a top priority. Proper storage and handling help ensure safety and protection of employees as well as facilities, operations, processes, and workflow equipment. Proper chemical storage and material handling procedures mitigate the changes of an incident, but if an accident does occur, proper chemical storage also mitigates the impact of such accidents. Lowering risk of workers and facilities damages.
learn more at abc 13 Eyewitness News https://abc13.com/deadly-kmco-chemical-plant-fire-in-crosby/5230466/
Our thoughts are with all those at KMCO and their families as details and the health and wellness of the Texas workers still being reported. We hope that all companies that handle hazardous materials, chemicals, and explosive material follow proper safety standards. Employ all OSHA, NFPA, and ATF storage compliance in your storage facilities and comply with EPA storage guidelines. Chemical handling for companies who mange volatile material is top priority and safety is a daily necessity. Ensure your compliant, ensure your storage is up-to-date and adequately maintained.
If you need consultation about proper storage for your inventory or workflow processing materials please contact US Hazmat Rentals today. From tornado shelter and severe weather shelters for businesses and remote locations to high quality short and longer term chemical storage compliance needs. US Hazmat Rentals is here to help your company minimize your risk, improve facility safety, and mitigate damages by helping ensure proper hazardous and flammable material storage.
