Residents Raise Safety Concerns After Eastman Steam Line Rupture

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A ruptured steam line at the Eastman Chemical plant in Kingsport, Tennessee on February 3rd prompted multiple 911 calls from concerned residents in the surrounding area. Callers expressed worries about the source of the loud noise, whether it indicated any danger, and if they should evacuate or take other safety precautions. The city says it notifies residents of emergencies through a mass notification system, but for events that don't rise to that level, they are dependent on information from the industrial facility.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the importance of clear communication between industrial facilities and local authorities, especially when it comes to public safety concerns. Residents living near chemical plants often have heightened worries about potential accidents or releases, and rapid, transparent information-sharing is crucial to maintaining community trust.

The details

Around 5 PM on February 3rd, Eastman Chemical reported a ruptured steam line at its Kingsport facility, causing a "rapid, audible release" of steam into the atmosphere until around 8 PM. This prompted multiple 911 calls from concerned residents in the surrounding area, some as far as 12 miles away in Blountville. Callers asked dispatchers about the source of the noise, whether it indicated any danger, and if they should evacuate or take other safety measures. An Eastman Fire Department staff member also called 911 to request an extra fire engine for mutual aid. Eastman says its investigation indicates the rupture was likely cold-weather related.

• Around 5 PM on February 3rd, the steam line ruptured at the Eastman Chemical plant.
• Concerned 911 calls from residents started shortly after 5 PM and continued until around 7:45 PM.

What’s next

Eastman says it is conducting a detailed investigation into the steam line rupture to understand the cause and take actions to prevent a recurrence.