PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A food processing facility in Cumberland County collapsed Wednesday afternoon. No one was seriously injured, but officials are monitoring levels of leaking ammonia.
Shortly after 1:30 p.m., authorities received a 911 call for a possible explosion and hazardous materials situation at Seabrook Brothers & Sons on Finley Road in Upper Deerfield Township. However, upon further assessment, officials said it was a partial building collapse rather than an explosion.
First responders assisted two employees with minor injuries, one of whom refused medical transport.
Cumberland County administrator Kevin Smaniatto said there is a leak of anhydrous ammonia, which the company uses in the process of freezing fruits and vegetables.
“Hazmat crews have determined that the levels of ammonia released are minimal. There is no hazard or threat to the community at this time,” he noted.
The only other injury on site occurred when a first responder suffered a possible heat-related illness, which Smaniatto said is fortunate, all things considered.
“It could not have been any better on our side,” he added.
There were approximately 150 employees in the facility, all of whom were evacuated before first responders arrived. They were all accounted for.
An investigation into the cause of the collapse has not yet begun.