PRODUCT LIABILITY: Safety Regulators Order Salami Plant to Fix Pipes after Ammonia Leak

February 25, 2010

San Francisco - Federal safety regulators have ordered a meat-processing company to replace faulty pipes after the August 28-ammonia leak which hospitalized 17 people in Forbes Boulevard last year.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials said Thursday that Columbus Salame was ordered to replace pipes that show signs of corrosion and parts which are made of brass within the next three months.

In August 2009, more than 200 lbs. of anhydrous ammonia leaked into the air after a pressure has buildup in a section of the pipe system, causing it to rupture.

The ammonia leak affected nearly 50 people, with 17 them of stayed in a hospital.

Anhydrous ammonia, which is commonly used as a refrigerant, is a chemical that can cause temporary eye damage or blindness and irritation in the mouth, throat, and skin.

When asked for comments, Columbus Salame spokesman Bob Wynne said the company will take the corrective action ahead of schedule.