On Jan. 14 a fire at a chemical complex in Passaic, New Jersey, caused a total building collapse. No injuries were reported. However, first responders had to not only battle flames but also frigid temperatures, which caused water from fire hoses to freeze.
This message appeared on both the Qualco and Majestic websites as of Jan. 17, 2022.
The complex — which dates to 1906 — houses Qualco Inc. and Majestic Industries. USA Today reported that Qualco Inc., which makes pool treatment supplies, had about a dozen chemicals at its large Passaic Street plant, ranging from industrial disinfectants to bleaching agents, according to a 2020 inventory list sent to state regulators.
Passaic Mayor Hector Lora said the fire is believed to have started in Majestic Industries’ warehouse, one of two buildings on the site, along with Qualco’s plant. Majestic manufactures furniture for casinos.
"This fire could have reached the main chemical plant and we could have been looking at a potential mass evacuation," said Lora.
Both the Qualco and Majestic websites were not accessible as of Jan. 17. Only a message thanking first responders was served. The message read:
“Thank you to all the first responders and agencies involved in the events of the night of January 14th, 2022.
We greatly appreciate your efforts and the way in which you mitigated a very difficult situation.
Qualco has been operating safely in Passaic for over 30 years and is committed to serving its customers in the pool and spa industries.”
Editor's note: You may also find this podcast from Process Safety With Trish & Traci useful: "Understand The Importance Of Partnering With First Responders"
