Explosion at Idaho sugar plant sends one to hospital, injures four others

Five people were injured after an explosion last week at a sugar-beet plant in Nampa, Idaho, the company said, according to the Idaho Statesman.

The explosion was reported at the Amalgamated Sugar processing plant, said Jessica Anderson, a spokesperson for the company.

In an email, Anderson said the injuries to the five did not appear to be life-threatening. Four of those injured were treated with “minor first aid” and have returned to work, she said. One person was sent to a hospital for further examination.

Anderson said the explosion took place in the beet-pulp steam dryer. Employees were wearing fire-protection gear at the time, she said.

Anderson said the company’s safety unit is investigating the explosion. “I’m certain that OSHA will conduct an investigation as well,” she said.

Damage to the plant was minimal, she said.