South Jersey plant explosion injures 1

A chemical plant in south Jersey was evacuated after an explosion on Friday morning.

The explosion happened at the Johnson Matthey plant in West Deptford just before 7 a.m. Friday.

The South Jersey Times says early reports indicate the explosion triggered a fire and injured one man exposed to hydrochloric acid. 

Plant manager Robert Bullen-Smith tells 6 ABC the spill occurred as the result of a process line in a chemical production area breaking and was contained to one area of the plant. Employees who were evacuated have since returned to work.

According to its website, Johnson Matthey is a speciality chemicals company focused on its core skills in catalysis, precious metals, fine chemicals and process technology. The West Deptford plant employs 173 and specializes in catalysts, chemicals and refining.

MORE COVERAGE:

• West Deptford chemical company explosion injures one / South Jersey Times
• Explosions reported at West Deptford plant / 6 ABC

The Associated Press contributed to this report