Chinese poultry workers killed in plant fire

Only one door was unlocked at a Chinese poultry plant where a fatal fire occurred on June 2. The incident killed 119 people and left several dozen people injured.

Only one door was unlocked at a Chinese poultry plant where a fatal fire occurred on June 2. The incident killed 119 people and left several dozen people injured, the Associated Press reported.

Initial reports stated the fire at the Jilin Baoyuangfeng Poultry Co. in Dhui, Jilin, China, were sparked by an explosion caused by leaking ammonia. Workers said all but one exit was locked to secure the property and to keep employees from stepping outside for breaks, which violates China's emergency response law. Due to the lack of available doors, many people were trampled in their attempts to escape.

A special Cabinet investigation is taking place, according to Chinese media reports.

The plant was constructed as recently as 2009. The company, which produces 67,000 tons of processed chicken per year, employs nearly 1,200 people. About 350 workers were at the plant during the time of the fire, which happened during a shift change. 

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