One person killed at chemical factory explosion in Alabama

AN EXPLOSION has occurred at the Umicore Speciality Chemicals plant in Arab, Alabama, killing one worker.

The explosion happened around 13:40 local time on 25 September. Arab fire chief Ricky Phillips told local media that several people had been working on an empty sulfuric acid tank in a part of the plant that is under construction. The tank was reportedly cleaned and deemed safe, but an explosion occurred when workers were cutting or welding at the top of the tank. One contract construction worker was killed, and no other injuries were reported. The exact cause of the explosion is still unknown.

Umicore is a global materials technology and recycling group which develops clean technologies and recycles and refines speciality chemicals.