“Steam Line Failure” at Eastman Plant Injures 4

The incident at the firm’s Kingsport, TN manufacturing site caused loud booms and vibrated nearby buildings.

John S. Forrester, former Managing Editor

January 31, 2022

1 Min Read
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Representative imageImage courtesy of Pixabay

Emergency personnel were sent to the Eastman Chemical manufacturing site in Kingsport, TN Monday morning after a high-pressure steam line failure created explosion-like noises as steam and shook nearby buildings was released.

The incident occurred at 7:30 a.m. in the northeast section of the facility, the company said in a statement posted to the Kingsport Fire Department’s page on Facebook.

“This resulted in isolated power outages to some portions of the site. Per our safety processes, personnel in that area of the plant and surrounding areas were held in place,” Betty Payne, director of corporate communications for Eastman, wrote in the release. “The steam line failure that resulted in loud noises and vibrations also caused the release of small particle debris that can occur with utility line disruptions. This may be seen in the immediate community near the site.”

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Eastman said four people received minor injuries after the failure. Local news broadcaster WJHL reported that five people were hurt at the site. Photos captured at the scene show a large plume of steam above the plant.

The steam line failure did not cause a fire or an explosion, according the company official.

Opened in 1920, Eastman’s Kingsport location produces a variety of chemicals, fibers, and plastics, according to information on the firm’s website. Products made at the site are used in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, adhesives, paint and a range of other applications.

About the Author

John S. Forrester

former Managing Editor, Powder & Bulk Solids

John S. Forrester is the former managing editor of Powder & Bulk Solids.

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