6 People Sent to Hospital After Chemical Exposure at M&M Mars Chocolate Factory in Tennessee

6 People Hospitalised Following Chemical Exposure at M&M Mars Chocolate Factory in Tennessee

Six individuals have been rushed to the hospital after a chemical exposure incident at the M&M Mars manufacturing plant in Cleveland, Tennessee. The unsettling occurrence took place around 9 a.m. within the facility on Peerless Road, triggering a swift response from Bradley County EMS and the Cleveland Fire Department (CFD).

The Bradley County Sheriff’s Office reported that emergency crews evaluated seven workers in total. One person was swiftly transported to Erlanger Medical Center, while five others were taken to Bradley Medical Center for further assessment. The seventh individual was treated on-site and discharged shortly after the evaluation.

Deputy Chief Pete Van Dusen of the CFD revealed that the workers were exposed to chlorine gas within a restricted area of the plant. Precautionary measures were taken as operations were temporarily paused in the affected section for a thorough assessment of the situation. Fortunately, monitoring devices confirmed that the atmosphere had been cleared of any hazardous gas, ensuring no immediate threat to the public or the surrounding community.

Mars Wrigley, the company managing the plant, emphasised that safety remains their top priority. They assured that all individuals involved in the incident were accounted for and unharmed, further stating that there was no impact on the wider community or the products manufactured on-site. The on-site team collaborated closely with first responders throughout the morning to promptly resolve the situation.

The Cleveland Fire Department, alongside plant management and safety staff, received accolades from Bradley County EMS for their coordinated and effective response to the chemical exposure emergency. As the investigation progresses, additional details are expected to emerge.

The M&M Mars manufacturing plant in Tennessee is a key facility responsible for producing various confectionery items such as M&Ms, Peanut Butter M&Ms (exclusive to this plant), Twix, and Altoid Mints. Operations within the plant are diverse and cater to a wide range of popular candy products enjoyed nationwide.

This incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with industrial operations and the importance of stringent safety protocols in place to protect the well-being of employees and the community. The prompt response and collaborative efforts of emergency responders and plant personnel helped contain the situation swiftly, averting any further escalation of the chemical exposure event.

As authorities continue their investigation into the cause of the incident, residents and stakeholders can rest assured that there is no lingering danger posed by the chemical exposure to the Cleveland, Tennessee community. The diligence and professionalism displayed by all parties involved underscore the commitment to safety and swift action in mitigating such unforeseen emergencies.