Ammonia Release to be Investigated by US Chemical Safety Board (CSB)

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Launches Investigation into Hazardous Ammonia Release in Sterling, VA

Washington D.C. August 1, 2024 – The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) announced today that it is launching an investigation into a hazardous ammonia leak which occurred the evening of July 31 at Cuisine Solutions, Inc., a food processing facility in Loudon County, VA. The release led to the hospitalization of 33 workers, with some in serious condition. A hazardous response team donned protective gear and shut off the valve, authorities said. The company said in a written statement Thursday that the leak happened outside the building and was contained within an hour. Of the 33 who were hospitalized, 22 were initially in serious condition, while 11 more had minor symptoms, fire officials said. Cuisine Solutions said Thursday that all of the hospitalized employees had been released with the exception of four, who were still under observation.

CSB Chairperson Steve Owens said, “This is a very serious incident that injured dozens of employees at the facility and put many others at risk.” The facility is a commercial food preparation plant with approximately 350 employees located about 30 miles from Washington D.C. The CSB’s board members are appointed by the President subject to Senate confirmation. The Board does not issue citations or fines but makes safety recommendations to companies, industry organizations, labor groups, and regulatory agencies such as OSHA and EPA.

Please visit our website, www.csb.gov. For more information, contact Communications Manager Hillary Cohen at Hillary.Cohen@csb.gov.

ammonia release