The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) is sending a team to investigate the fatal explosion at the Horizon Biofuels facility in Fremont, Nebraska, that occurred on July 29.  The facility is approximately 30 miles outside of Omaha. The blast fatally injured three people – two young girls and an adult man – who were in the facility at the time of the incident.

CSB Chairperson Steve Owens said, “The CSB is deploying a team of investigators who will work to determine  the root cause of this horrific incident and identify actions to help prevent a tragedy like this from happening again in the future.”

The facility produces wood pellets and animal bedding. Initial reports indicate multiple explosions and fires resulting from the incident.

The CSB's board members are appointed by the president subject to Senate confirmation. The Board does not issue citations or fines but makes safety recommendations to companies, industry organizations, labor groups, and regulatory agencies such as OSHA and EPA.