A chemical explosion at a General Motors metal-stamping plant in Indiana killed a contractor and injured five other people, authorities said.
Marion General Hospital was treating five people with non-life threatening injuries, hospital spokeswoman Ann Vermilion told the Marion Chronicle-Tribune. However, GM issued a statement saying four employees were under observation for non-life-threatening conditions at the hospital and that four others were transported there, but required no treatment.
Yesterday's explosion involved a chlorine dioxide tank, and the chemical continued spilling out after the explosion, Marion Fire Chief Paul David said. A hazardous materials crew contained the spill, and firefighters were rinsing off the skin of everyone who may have come into contact with the chemical. If inhaled, the chemical can cause lung problems and can irritate the skin and eyes.
The plant about 60 miles (100 kilometers) northeast of Indianapolis employs about 1,600 workers and provides blanks, stampings and sheet metal assembly for vehicles to GM assembly plants across North America, according to GM's website.
