No hazard to public after explosion at St. Bernard chemical plant [Video]

ST. BERNARD, Ohio — There is no threat to the public after an explosion at a chemical plant in St. Bernard, police said Monday night.

Residents in the area said they heard a loud explosion coming from Este Avenue. The Cincinnati Fire Department responded to the area, reporting an explosion and a small fire.

St. Bernard police said there was a hydrogen explosion that was contained to a building at Emery Oleochemicals. Police said there are no health hazards or chemical threats to nearby homes or businesses. No one needs to shelter in place, police said.

Emery Oleochemicals, headquartered in Cincinnati, produces chemicals commonly made from natural oils and fats. Emery started as a tallow and candle business in 1840. It later began the commercial production of chemicals used in cleaning chemicals or pharmaceuticals.