Two workers were killed and several others injured in an explosion at a chemical plant in Port Neches, Texas, on Tuesday morning. The blast occurred around 1:00 am local time at the TPC Group facility, which produces butadiene - a highly flammable gas used to make synthetic rubber.
According to officials, the explosion caused extensive damage to the plant and nearby homes. Residents within a half-mile radius of the site were ordered to evacuate as a precautionary measure. The fire resulting from the blast was eventually contained later on Tuesday afternoon.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into what caused the explosion. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has also been notified of the incident.
In a statement released by TPC Group, company spokesperson Sara Cronin expressed condolences for those affected by the tragedy:
"We are deeply saddened by this event and our hearts go out to all those impacted. Our focus is on protecting our employees, contractors and members of local community."
This is not the first time TPC Group's Port Neches plant has experienced an accident. In 2019, one worker was killed and three others injured in another explosion at the facility.
The latest incident highlights once again concerns over safety standards in chemical plants across America. According to data from OSHA, there were 166 incidents involving hazardous chemicals last year alone that resulted in fatalities or hospitalizations.