Posted: Wednesday, May 18, 2005 6:53 PM

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has ordered the Umatilla Chemical Agent Disposal Facility (UMCDF) at the Umatilla Chemical Depot in Hermiston to cease rocket processing immediately, following a fire that occurred during processing of GB M-55 rockets shortly before noon today. The incident is the third in a series of similar fires that have taken place at the facility since April 7, 2005.

DEQ has ordered the facility to cease all rocket processing operations in the Deactivation Furnace System (DFS) until further notice, except for processing operations required to clear portions of rockets remaining on the production line. Normal operations may resume only after the written approval has been provided by DEQ. Approval to resume DFS operation will not be granted until UMCDF has satisfied DEQ that thorough investigations have been completed and preventative and mitigating measures have been identified and implemented to address future explosions and/or fires during the incineration process.

For more information contact Shelly Ingram, Umatilla Chemical Demilitarization Program, 256 E. Hurlburt Ave., Suite 105, Hermiston, OR 97838. Comments may also be faxed to Ingram at (541) 567-4741 or e-mailed to shelly.ingram@deq.state.or.us.