Explosions Rock Newburyport Chemical Business

NEWBURYPORT, MA — Several explosions blasted a hole through a roof of a chemical manufacturing business Thursday morning, causing an evacuation and hazmat response, but no injuries.

There is no public health threat following the explosions at PCI Synthesis, according tot authorities.

The company said it was a mechanical issue that caused the blasts.

The building on Opportunity Way was evacuated after three explosions around 4:30 a.m. — and before three others rocked it soon after.

The Associated Press reported the Occupational Safety and Health Administration found "serious" violations last year for how the company handled hazardous chemicals.

PCI Synthesis offers "a wide range of chemical products that are immediately available for shipment," according to its website.

Schools in Newburyport were already operating at a 2-hour delay due to overnight snow across the North Shore. The schools did open without further delay.