Chemtrade reports explosion at Beaumont facility

Toronto-Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund reports that at approximately 1:20 a.m. Aug. 21, an explosion occurred in the furnace at its plant in Beaumont, Texas, causing injuries to two employees. There were no off-site environmental releases. The fire department responded to the scene, and the plant is now secure. “Our first concern is for the well being of our employees,” said Mark Davis, Chemtrade president and CEO. “Both employees have been taken to the hospital, where they are receiving medical attention. We will ensure that these employees and their families receive any support we can provide. No other employees were injured, and the plant remains safely shut down.” The Beaumont plant had been shut down for maintenance; the incident occurred when the plant was being brought back online. The maintenance, involving the replacement of a heat exchanger, is not thought to be the cause of the furnace explosion, which occurred during start-up. The cause of the incident is not yet known, and the plant will remain down until it is determined that it can be safely restarted. Chemtrade is assembling an appropriate investigation team to examine the details of this incident. At this point the extent of downtime that will be required is unknown, and more information will be provided as it becomes available. The facility employs 50 and produces sulfuric acid, according to The Beaumont Enterprise.