NTSB releases final report, recommendations after Pennsylvania chocolate factory explosion

WEST READING, Pa. (WHTM) — The National Transportation Safety Board released their final report this week on a deadly explosion at a Berks County chocolate factory in 2023.

The explosion rocked the R.M. Palmer Company complex in West Reading on March 24, 2023.

Seven employees of the company were killed, 10 people were injured, and Building 2 of the complex was leveled. Two other buildings were also severely damaged, the NTSB said. In total, $42 million in property damage was caused.

The explosion was ruled accidental.

In the final report, investigators say the probable cause was likely a retired plastic natural gas service line and an adjacent steam pipe leak. The retired line was a stub that remained connected to the gas main.

Prior to the explosion, several employees reported smelling gas, but few evacuated.

The NTSB issued numerous recommendations, including that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) require employers serviced by natural gas to implement emergency procedures. They also want Pennsylvania to require pipelines transporting steam and other high-temperature materials in public rights of way to register with PA One Call.

Also recommended is the installation of natural gas alarms in facilities serviced by the utility.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission is also being requested to respond to a formal safety recommendation relating to the placement of emergency valves on natural gas distribution systems.

“We value the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing conversation about these safety recommendations,” PUC Chairman Stephen DeFrank said. “The collaboration between the PUC and NTSB helps strengthen our utility systems and better protect communities across the Commonwealth.”

“From accelerated pipe replacement and advanced leak detection to stronger communication protocols, every step we take is aimed at reducing risk,” DeFrank adds. “The most meaningful way we can honor those lost in West Reading – and in other tragic incidents – is by building a safer future.”

The Common Ground Alliance, which focuses on damage prevention related to underground facilities like natural gas pipelines, applauded the NTSB’s recommendations.

“The long-awaited recommendations stemming from this catastrophic incident bring to light the dangers of not prioritizing underground utility line safety,” CGA President Sarah Magruder Lyle, said. This tragic incident is a reminder that everyone dealing with the transport of hazardous materials underground must work together to avoid another disaster. By recommending the widespread adoption of CGA Best Practice 3-26 on 811 center membership, the NTSB has affirmed the importance of improving damage prevention awareness and closing gaps in participation in the 811-before-you-dig process. In remembering the victims and their families, we hope that through common-sense best practices and comprehensive participation in the 811 process, lives and property will be saved.”