FAQs
UPDATED: February 22, 2025
What does the facility manufacture?
PCC Fasteners - SPS Jenkintown specializes in the design and manufacture of high strength nuts, bolts, and associated products, primarily for aerospace applications.
What Happened
What was the cause of this fire?
We are not certain at this point. SPS has begun an investigation of the cause of the incident, but the site is still under the control of the local fire marshal for emergency operations and therefore access is limited.
Were there any injuries among employees or first responders?
No. Thankfully, our employees working at the time of the fire are safe and well – this is a testament to the plant leadership team’s commitment to safety and their partnership with local first responders. We truly appreciate the efforts of the emergency services and first responders, who ensured that every person at the plant was safely evacuated as they safely addressed the fire.
Why was the sprinkler system inoperable?
The fire suppression system was under repair due to a ruptured water main. SPS promptly notified the fire department and other relevant parties after learning of the water main break. Upon approval of the fire marshal, SPS had implemented alternate fire prevention protocols (e.g., fire watches and ceasing “hot work”), pending completion of the repair.
What chemicals may have been released during the fire?
Fortunately, the main storage area for chemicals was not impacted and the bulk chemicals from those areas were removed from the site on February 21, 2025, by environmental response experts. Our investigation to identify chemicals in active use in operations that may have been affected by the fire is ongoing and we will provide updates as available.
Community Safety
Are you still monitoring for air and water safety?
SPS is monitoring both air and surface water in consultation with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Philadelphia Water Department. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Philadelphia Water Department has determined that drinking water supplies are fine to consume and air monitoring has shown no chemical detections that would represent a public health risk. SPS currently has fourteen (14) air monitors near the facility and throughout the community.
What are the risks of asbestos exposure from the fire?
SPS has also tested samples of debris from the site and nearby areas and there has been no detection of asbestos in those materials. Despite these results, SPS is proceeding carefully in clean up activities and will continue to test materials.
Was anyone nearby exposed to toxic chemicals during or after the fire?
Air monitoring has shown no chemical detections that would represent a public health risk.
Who is cleaning up the debris in the neighborhood?
SPS has made arrangements for debris removal. Residents who would like debris removed from their homes should contact SPS by emailing ContactSPS@pccairframe.com or the contact section of SPSupdates.com/contact.
Future of Plant/Employees
Do you plan on rebuilding the plant?
The incident just happened. We are in the early stages of assessing the situation, which will help inform the path forward.
Are you still paying employees and providing health coverage?
We are continuing to pay employees and provide health coverage at least through March 16, 2025, while we assess damage and plan for the future.
