Explosion reported at Celanese near Narrows

UPDATE: 5:00 p.m. ET

At approximately 10:00 a.m. ET on March 20, a release of acetic acid vapor (which has been incorrectly reported as an explosion) occurred in the Cellulose Acetate Unit at Narrows, Virginia, causing injuries to some individuals on site. The release was contained to the immediate area of the plant within the fenceline with no additional impact to the surrounding area.

We can confirm there are no fatalities. Respecting the privacy of the individuals involved, we can offer the following update on the injured: three remain under hospital care, with two individuals in critical condition and one in stable condition. The others were treated and released.

All other site employees have been accounted for.

Our top priority right now is to ensure the safety of our employees, contractors, responders, and the local community.

The cause of the incident is being investigated.

Jamaison Schuler

Global Communications

UPDATE:

Additional news reports on the incident at Celanese say six people were injured in the incident – two critically.

A company spokesperson is quoted as describing the incident as involving a release of acetic acid vapor in the Cellulose Acetate Unit. The release, the spokesperson said, was contained to the immediate area of the plant.

ORIGINAL REPORT:

The Patriot has learned of an explosion earlier today at the Celanese plant in Giles County near Narrows.

According to our source, the explosion was described as “a bad one,” and involved buildings 11 and 8 of the facility located along the New River and Route 460.

Three Life Guard 10 helicopters were dispatched to the scene, according to our source.

Celanese, which originally began operation in December 1939, produces cellulose acetate in flake and tow forms and employs approximately 1,000 Celanese and contract personnel, according to the Department of Energy website Better Buildings Solution Center.energy.gov