OSHA Investigates Branchburg Explosion That Hospitalized 2 With Chemical Burns

BRANCHBURG, NJ — Two people were hospitalized following an explosion in Branchburg on Wednesday morning.

At around 4:31 a.m., Branchburg PD was called to 197 Meister Avenue (Air Liquide) in the township for a reported explosion on the premises. Air Liquide describes itself as "a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and healthcare."

There were people injured as a result of the explosion who were assessed by EMS and two people were taken to a nearby hospital for further treatment of chemical burns/exposure, said Branchburg Police Captain Edward Edgar.

Shortly after around 5:10 a.m., a Medicvac landing zone was requested in the area of Lamington Road, said North Branch Volunteer Fire Company. However, the two injured were ultimately taken by ambulance to the hospital.

Branchburg Rescue EMS, Somerset RWJ EMS, Readington Fire, North Branch Fire, Raritan Boro Fire, Bradley Gardens Fire, Country Hills Fire, Whitehouse Fire, and Somerset County Hazmat also helped on scene.

County Line Road was closed briefly so that first responders were able to access the area, and Meister Avenue was also closed until 12 p.m. when the scene was cleared.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration(OSHA) representatives, NJ DEP, and Branchburg Township Officials are currently on scene assessing the overall damage caused to the building by the reported explosion with the assistance of Air Liquide Safety.

Further investigation regarding a determination as to the underlying cause of the matter has been turned over to their authority accordingly.

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