At 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, January 16, a chemical tank exploded at a PeroxyChem
plant in Pasadena, TX. According to officials, the explosion occurred
when employees of the plant and contractors were conducting a routine
function. They stated that one contractor and two employees were taken
to a local hospital to be treated for injuries that included a broken
arm and toxic exposure.
One of the contractors died at the scene of the accident.
Authorities are reporting that there was a tank leak that involved approximately
1,000 gallons of an oil-based cleaning solution; that chemical has not
yet been identified by the company.
Currently, the incident is being investigated and the cause is unknown.
"We are deeply saddened to report the loss of the contractor,"
stated PeroxyChem in a statement released today. "Our thoughts and
prayers are with his family and loved ones,"