Chemical Press Release: Greeneville Manufacturer – December 20th, 2023
At approximately 7:15 AM (EST) Greeneville Fire Department responded to a chemical leak at LQM, Inc located in Greeneville, Tennessee. The leak was quickly contained, however six LQM employees were transported to Greeneville Community Hospital. The scene was cleared, and control of the site was returned to LGM.
Greene County 911 received a second call around 10:00 AM (EST) indicating a follow-on leak occurred at LQM. Emergency personnel responded and verified the presence of a chemical agent. The building was evacuated, and an additional 23 employees were transported to hospitals in Greeneville, Johnson City, and Newport. Another 53 employees were monitored for any signs of reaction to the chemical agent, and all were eventually released by emergency personnel.
The second leak was contained, and the immediate area of Greeneville around LGM was never in danger. The chemical agent was found to be anhydrous ammonia which can affect the human respiratory system and cause skin irritation.
The scene was declared safe and turned back over to LQM by the Incident Commander at approximately 1:30 PM (EST).
If you have any questions, please contact Todd Smith at 423-787-6184.
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Two chemical leaks at La Quesera Mexicana on Hankins Street, off Bohannon Avenue, sent 29 people to area hospitals this morning.
The first leak occurred around 7:15 AM as anhydrous ammonia used for the refrigerating units leaked from a valve that was undergoing maintenance. At that time, six people were sickened and transported to local hospitals.
As emergency response crews were still on the scene, a second leak occurred shortly after 10 this morning, resulting in another 23 transported to area hospitals. 53 people were held for observation. Exposure to anhydrous ammonia can result in respiratory issues.
The Greeneville Fire Department, EMS, the Greeneville Police Department, Debusk Rehab Unit, and Hazmat personnel responded to the scene. Bohannon Avenue was closed while crews responded.
