LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Following a devastating explosion at a Kentucky manufacturing facility earlier this week, the company’s president has expressed the firm’s commitment to taking responsibility for the incident and compensating those impacted by the explosion.
“First and foremost, we are heartbroken by the event that occurred on Tuesday,” stated Ann Leonard, president of Givaudan Sense Color, during a press call on Friday afternoon. “We recognize the profound effect this incident has had on the community, and we share in their pain.”
The explosion resulted in the tragic deaths of two employees and left 11 others injured. Nearby homes suffered significant damage, with shattered windows reported, while some residents experienced pictures being dislodged from walls and drywall being cracked due to the force of the blast.
One residence situated directly opposite the plant faced severe consequences, with a sizable piece of metal apparently embedded in its structure.
Leonard affirmed the company’s responsibility, stating, “We absolutely take accountability” for what occurred and assured that the company would provide compensation to nearby residents.
At this point, the cause of the explosion remains undetermined, with Leonard indicating that this information will be ascertained by investigators who currently have control of the site where the facility once operated. She also mentioned that she was not aware of any equipment failures prior to the explosion.
Residents have raised concerns regarding the company’s operations in the area, suggesting that relocation may be necessary. However, Leonard emphasized that Givaudan is presently focused on the wellbeing of its staff and the local community. Louisville’s mayor has echoed sentiments that a more suitable site in the city could be considered for the plant, which has a history of a severe incident back in 2003.
Leonard remarked, “We have been part of this community for more than 70 years. We have a deep affection for Louisville and wish to affirm our commitment to it. Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that we are still in the very early stages of this process.”
The facility employed approximately 55 workers, all of whom will continue to receive their wages during this challenging time. The company has also established a crisis hotline for individuals to report damages sustained due to the explosion.
Investigators from federal, state, and local agencies are actively looking into the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
According to city records, the Givaudan plant specialized in the production of caramel coloring for the food industry by heating sugar and water and incorporating chemicals, including aqueous ammonia for specific products.