Ames Goldsmith Catalyst Refiners Chemical Catastrophe Injures Workers

A serious chemical emergency has been reported at the Ames Goldsmith Catalyst Refiners facility between Nitro and Institute, leaving multiple individuals receiving treatment at local hospitals.  According to officials, the incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. on April 22, 2026,  and involved an acid-based chemical, later identified as diluted nitric acid—a highly corrosive and potentially dangerous substance.  Two have been confirmed dead, and another worker is in critical condition.  Twenty-one people were transported to local hospitals.  Seven of the injured were first responders who were actively working to save the lives of those closest to the violent chemical reaction of Nitric Acid (a strong corrosive and oxidizer) and M2000A (identified as a “surface treatment” substance containing Bonderite).

Emergency crews, hazmat teams, and hospitals across the Kanawha Valley quickly activated decontamination protocols to treat exposed individuals. Hospitals providing expert care include CAMC (Charleston Area Medical Center): General Hospital, Memorial Hospital, Women and Children’s Hospital. Thomas Hospitals (Vandalia Health): Located in South Charleston. Marshall Health Network: Cabell Huntington Hospital, St. Mary’s Medical Center.Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown.

If you or a loved one were injured in this incident, it’s important to understand your legal rights.

What We Know About the Incident

Emergency responders, including Governor Morrisey, Kanawha County officials, and state agencies, acted quickly to contain the situation.

Patrick Morrisey confirmed that multiple people were hospitalized following the exposure. Reports also indicated:

  • Patients required on-site medical treatment and decontamination
  • Some individuals may have been found unresponsive
  • A strong odor was reported in the surrounding area
  • The chemical involved was a corrosive nitric acid solution

Exposure to substances like nitric acid can cause serious and sometimes delayed health effects, especially if inhaled or if it comes into contact with skin.

Symptoms and Injuries After Chemical Exposure

Nitric Acid exposure symptoms:

Even if symptoms seem minor at first, chemical exposure injuries can worsen over time. Victims of incidents like this may experience:

  • Chemical burns to the skin or eyes
  • Breathing problems or lung damage
  • Persistent coughing or chest tightness
  • Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
  • Long-term respiratory illness or organ damage

In some cases, exposure can lead to chronic conditions that develop days, weeks, or even years later.

What To Do If You Were Exposed to a Chemical Spill

If you were at or near the plant during the incident:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention (even if symptoms seem mild)
  2. Follow all decontamination instructions from emergency responders
  3. Document everything — where you were, what you experienced, and any symptoms
  4. Avoid washing contaminated clothing with other laundry
  5. Speak with a lawyer before discussing the incident with insurance companies

Early documentation can make a critical difference in protecting your health and your legal claim.

Your Legal Rights After a Chemical Exposure Incident

Companies that manufacture, store, or use hazardous chemicals have a legal duty to protect workers and the public.

When safety protocols fail, victims may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Emergency medical treatment and ongoing care
  • Lost wages and future income loss
  • Pain and suffering
  • Long-term disability or impairment
  • Wrongful death (for families who lost a loved one)

Chemical exposure cases are often complex and require investigation into workplace safety procedures, chemical handling, and regulatory compliance.

How Robinette Legal Group Can Help

Our firm has extensive experience representing victims of toxic chemical exposure across West Virginia, including cases involving industrial accidents and hazardous substances.  What can a lawyer for a plant accident do?

We work with:

  • Medical experts to document injuries and long-term effects
  • Industrial safety specialists to analyze what went wrong
  • Investigators to determine liability

We are prepared to take on corporations and insurers to pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Serving Victims Across the Kanawha Valley and Beyond

From our office in Morgantown, we represent individuals and families across the state, including those affected in:

  • Nitro
  • Institute
  • Charleston
  • Throughout West Virginia

Speak With a Lawyer Today — Free Consultation

If you or a loved one were injured in the Kanawha County chemical incident near Nitro, WV, you don’t have to figure this out alone.

Call (304) 594-1800 or contact a chemical exposure lawyer for Nitro and Kanawha County online for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights and what steps to take next.

FAQ: Is Nitric Acid Exposure Dangerous?

Is nitric acid exposure dangerous?

Yes. Nitric acid is a highly corrosive chemical that can cause severe injuries when it comes into contact with the skin, eyes, or lungs. Even diluted forms can lead to burns, respiratory damage, and long-term health complications.

What happens if you breathe in nitric acid fumes?

Inhaling nitric acid fumes can irritate and damage the respiratory system. Symptoms may include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and lung inflammation. In severe cases, it can lead to chemical pneumonitis or long-term breathing problems.

Can nitric acid burn your skin?

Yes. Nitric acid can cause immediate chemical burns upon contact with the skin. These burns may worsen over time and can lead to permanent scarring or tissue damage if not treated promptly.

Are symptoms of nitric acid exposure delayed?

Some symptoms appear immediately, such as burning or irritation. However, respiratory symptoms and internal damage can develop hours or even days after exposure, making medical evaluation critical.

What should you do after exposure to nitric acid?

You should seek medical attention immediately. Remove contaminated clothing, rinse exposed areas thoroughly (if instructed by emergency personnel), and follow all decontamination procedures. Even if symptoms seem mild, a medical evaluation is important.

The Robinette Legal Group, PLLC is a West Virginia personal injury law firm based out of Morgantown, WV. It was founded in 1999 and is highly rated, with many honors and awards of excellence.