| HazMat responders at work: CSB will investigate the fatal release of ammonia at Tanner Industries |
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying an investigation team to the site of an anhydrous ammonia release that occurred earlier today at Tanner Industries, located south of Swansea, South Carolina, the agency announced.
According to media reports, a woman driving her car near the facility was overcome by the ammonia vapor and was fatally injured. Seven other individuals were taken to a local hospital for what were thought to be non-life threatening injuries.
Ammonia is a strong irritant that affects the respiratory system. It is a chemical used in a variety of industries, including the manufacture of fertilizers and in commercial refrigeration systems.
The CSB team will be headed by Investigation Supervisor Robert Hall, PE. Board Member William E. Wright will accompany the team and act as the chief spokesperson.