Work resumes at Swift plant after emergency evacuation
Production has resumed at the Swift and Company meatpacking plant in Worthington, Minn., after an ammonia leak prompted a temporary shutdown.
Emergency crews were called to the plant around 10 p.m. last night. Worthington Regional Hospital initiated its disaster plan and saw more than 20 people go through its emergency room. All those treated have been released.
Jenny Anderson-Martinez, Swift's human resources Director, says the plant's own hazardous materials team was able to contain the ammonia that leaked from a valve on a cooler.
"The leak only affected one department in our facility, which was our kill floor, we got everybody evacuated immediately and we're still investigating the cause of the failed valve," says Anderson-Martinez.
Production at the plant was stopped after the incident but resumed this morning.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.