An ammonia leak at the Home Foods Market facility in Norwood, Mass. has left one man dead and another hospitalized. First responders were called to the plant on December 19 following a 911 call.
According to a statement from the Norfolk County District Attorney's office the two men, who were working for an outside HVAC contractor, were in the vicinity of an ammonia pipe that had been severed.
AP reports the District Attorney's office does not believe foul play is suspected. Sources say the leak was contained within the building and that the surrounded area was in no danger. Between 100-200 people that had been inside the building at the time were evacuated.
“There was an accident at our Norwood plant today involving two HVAC contractors. As they were working, it appears an ammonia pipe was severed," Home Market Foods said in a statement. "One of the contractors was able to escape with injuries. Tragically the second contractor did not make it out and he died. Our hearts go out to his family. It is just so sad and horrific.”
Home Market Foods, which manufacturers fresh and frozen meatballs, chicken, appetizers, and snacks for both retail and food service customers, has ammonia tanks on the property and stores frozen foods in the building.
