Date: July 28, 2021
Location: Belle, West Virginia (USA)
Address: 901 W. Dupont Avenue, 25015
Type: Dust Explosion
Fuel: Chlorinated Bleach Powder
Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
Equipment: Furnace
Company: Optima Chemical
Database Incidents: This facility was referenced in dust explosion incidents in December 2020.
Loss: No Injuries
Capital Cost: Unknown
Status: Open
Confirmation: Unconfirmed
Company Description:
According to its website, Optima Chemical is a global supplier of specialty chemicals, toll services and custom manufacturing. It was founded in 1991 and has offices in Douglas, Georgia and Belle, West Virginia. The company’s product lines include Boronic Acids, Grignard Reagents, Lithium Reagents, and Phosphorus Products.
Incident Description:
On July 28, 2021, MetroNews reported an explosion at a chemical plant in Belle, West Virginia.
According to emergency officials, the explosion occurred at 8:40 a.m. in a furnace. Maintenance staff were troubleshooting it when the incident took place. It is unclear if the furnace was used to heat the building or products produced at the facility.
No injuries were reported but some ductwork was damaged.
An investigation into the explosion is underway.
Previous Incidents:
This facility experienced a dust explosion on December 8, 2020, covered in One Person Killed and Three Injured in Explosion at Chemical Plant.
Sources:
MetroNews
