Fatal Hydrogen Explosion at Kentucky Food Oil Factory
Summary of Incident
Shively, Kentucky – A fatal explosion occurred at the AAK food-grade oil factory on Sunday, September 21, 2025, resulting in the death of one employee. The incident, which took place in the Louisville suburb of Shively, has prompted an investigation by the Louisville Metro Arson Bureau.
The AAK facility produces plant-based oils and fats. The process involves the use of hydrogen to convert oils into more stable, usable products through a process called hydrogenation. The explosion was reported to have occurred during a "hydrogen tank conversion process" and was contained to an area outside of the main building.
Speculation on Cause
The exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation. However, given that the incident involved a hydrogen tank conversion process, it is possible that a leak of hydrogen gas, which is highly flammable, came into contact with an ignition source. In 2018, the Shively Fire Department responded to a fire at the same plant that was caused by a cooking oil leak and also involved a small hydrogen leak, although no injuries were reported in that incident.
Sources:
WDRB. (2025, September 22). Explosion at cooking oil plant in Shively kills 1 person, prompts investigation. Retrieved from https://www.wdrb.com/news/explosion-at-cooking-oil-plant-in-shively-kills-1-person-prompts-investigation/article_d252d767-3a69-4304-ab37-77e880a201db.html
Hydrogen Insight. (2025, September 22). One person killed in hydrogen explosion at food-grade oil factory. Retrieved from https://www.hydrogeninsight.com/industrial/one-person-killed-in-hydrogen-explosion-at-food-grade-oil-factory/2-1-1875260
WHAS11. (2025, September 22). Deadly blast at Shively food plant under investigation. Retrieved from https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/shively-aak-food-plant-explosion-investigation/417-c1656e61-4705-4023-bfa0-5081b5794a48