8 workers hospitalized for CO poisoning

KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) - Eight maintenance workers at a Kentwood factory were taken to the hospital after being exposed to  elevated levels of carbon monoxide.

Firefighters and ambulances were called to Kerry Ingredients and Flavors, 4444 52nd St. after the employees became ill just after 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, company spokesperson Jim Egan said.
 
Firefighters found carbon monoxide levels in an area near the boiler were around 300 parts per million. The U.S. National Ambient Air Quality Standards for outdoor air are 9 ppm.

The affected employees were evacuated from the building. Five were taken to the hospital by ambulance and three others were transported to the hospital by family members.

The plant resumed normal operations at 11 a.m.

"Through quick response, we contained it to the isolated area by the maintenance," Egan said.

The employees' injuries were reported to be nonlife-threatening.