Ammonia Safety Day brings local manufacturers together

Last fall, Salinas experienced one of the largest ammonia leaks the county hazmat crew has seen.

Today, Victor Martinez, the engineering manager for Fresh Express, Salinas, took part in the Salinas Valley Ammonia Safety Day and talked to Central Coast News about why this day is so important.

“It is extremely important.” Martinez said. “Ammonia safety and awareness is part of our core importance in training not just for Chiquita, but for Fresh Express locally.”

Martinez explained that manufacturers use ammonia to keep harvested crops cool. So, if there is a leak, it is primarily a threat to those who work in the manufacturing industry. That is why everything from valves, to the controls, to the trucks that transport the food need to be monitored and maintained just right to keep food fresh and employees’ safe.

“Accidents are preventable and with the proper training and awareness most accidents can be prevented from occurring,” said Martinez.