RADFORD, Va. (AP) -- Investigators are looking for the cause of an acid leak that injured one worker at an ammunition plant in Radford.
The U.S. Army and BAE Systems Inc. say the incident occurred late Sunday as on-site fire crews at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant were trying to cool several overheated spent nitric acid tanks. One tank containing the acid oleum began leaking.
The workers had to leave the area because of fumes. One worker who was overcome was taken to a hospital for observation. His injuries weren't life-threatening.
The tank stopped leaking around 1:20 a.m. Monday.
Media outlets report that BASE Systems Inc. expects to resume normal operations Tuesday.
The company took over the plant's operations Sunday under a 10-year contract.
Following is the U.S. Army release on the incident:
At approximately 1930 (7:30 p.m.) hours on 1 July 2012, the spent acid tank battery at the RFAAP nitrocellulose building alarmed for excess heat. Initial efforts to reduce the temperature were unsuccessful, and the onsite fire department was dispatched to assist. Application of large volumes of water to the exteriors of the tanks was successful at reducing the temperature of the tanks containing spent nitric acid. One tank containing oleum remained at an extremely high temperature.
At approximately 2330 hours (11:30 p.m.), two leaks appeared in the mid-section of the oleum tank, and fumes from the oleum forced first responders to evacuate the area.
The National Response Center, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and the Montgomery County emergency operations center were notified at approximately 2354 (11:54 p.m.) hours on 1 July.
At approximately 0015 (12:15 a.m.) hours on 2 July, a line of severe thunderstorms struck the RFAAP area. Winds in excess of 70 MPH and driving rain prevented first responders and plant personnel from immediately containing the spill.
At approximately 0120 (1:20 a.m.) hours on 2 July, the oleum stopped leaking. On site personnel are sampling to determine the extent of the oleum dispersal and containment operations are underway.
During the initial response, one employee was overcome by fumes. He was transported to the hospital, and held overnight for observation. He did not suffer any life-threatening injuries.
