Operations at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant remain on a temporary “precautionary pause” as officials work to address the discovery of a hazardous compound onsite.
According to Justine Barati with the Joint Munitions Command, the pause began March 12 to allow experts to safely assess and remove lead azide, a chemical used in detonator production.
Officials stress there is no immediate danger to the public. The material has reportedly been stored for a long time inside reinforced concrete “igloos,” which are designed to contain explosive materials and prevent chain reactions.
Barati says the lead azide was discovered during a routine safety inspection, a standard process to ensure hazardous materials are being properly stored and handled. They intend to dispose of the substance safely.
