An industrial accident at a chemical manufacturing facility in Narrows, Virginia, has left six employees injured, with two in critical condition. The incident occurred on the morning of Thursday, March 20, at the Celanese plant’s Cellulose Acetate Unit. According to officials, a release of acetic acid vapor occurred within the unit. A total of six workers were injured as a result of the release, with two remaining in critical condition. The cause of the vapor release remains under investigation.
This incident highlights the serious risks associated with handling industrial chemicals like acetic acid. In high concentrations, acetic acid vapor can cause significant harm, including respiratory injuries, chemical burns, and long-term health complications. Workers in such environments depend on strict safety protocols, functioning equipment, and prompt emergency procedures to reduce risk.
While the exact cause of the acetic acid vapor release at the Celanese plant is still under investigation, incidents like this often stem from equipment failure, human error, or breakdowns in safety procedures. In facilities where volatile chemicals are handled, even minor lapses—like a faulty valve, corroded pipe, or a misstep during routine maintenance—can lead to dangerous releases. If containment systems are not properly maintained, or alarms fail to activate in time, workers may be exposed before they even realize a leak has occurred.
Another possibility is a failure in ventilation or air handling systems. These systems are designed to control chemical vapors and prevent buildup in enclosed areas. If ventilation is compromised—due to poor design, power loss, or neglected maintenance—it can allow dangerous concentrations of vapor to accumulate quickly. Workers in or near the affected area may not have time to evacuate, especially if warning systems are delayed or nonexistent.
In some cases, safety protocols themselves are insufficient or inconsistently enforced. Employers have a duty to train workers thoroughly, provide appropriate protective equipment, and ensure all safety checks are followed every time hazardous materials are handled. When shortcuts are taken to meet production demands, or when workers aren’t made aware of proper emergency procedures, preventable accidents can happen.
There have been a number of incidents at industrial and manufacturing plants. There was an explosion at the Parker Lord Corporation Chemical Plant in Saegertown, Pennsylvania on February 9, 2025. A fire engulfed a magnesium casting plant in the south suburbs of Chicago, Illinois on March 5, 2025. There was an ammonia leak at the Roehm USA chemical plant in Matagorda County, Texas on March 7, 2025. There was an explosion at the Martin Creek Power Plant in Tatum, Texas on March 8, 2025. Three workers were injured in a scaffolding collapse at a Chevron facility in Pasadena, Texas on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.
Injured in a Workplace Explosion? Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm
If you or someone you love has been injured due to chemical exposure—whether from acetic acid or another hazardous substance—it’s critical to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. Exposure injuries can have lasting health consequences, and companies may not always take full responsibility. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, investigate what went wrong, and pursue compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and long-term effects. Don’t navigate the aftermath alone—get the legal support you need.
Industrial explosions can leave workers with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. If you or a loved one was injured in a power plant accident, you deserve to know your legal rights. At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we are committed to helping injured workers seek justice and compensation for their injuries. Our team will investigate the cause of the explosion, determine liability, and fight for the financial support you need to recover.
We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm today at 713-804-9306 or reach out online to learn more about how we can assist you.