FAQs
UPDATED: March 25, 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. An investigation into the cause of the incident is in process.
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 e>orts 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 marshall, 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. For information on chemicals used in processing operations, please visit the “SPS Process Overview” section of SPSupdates.com.
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 fifteen (15) air monitors – with six (6) near the facility and the remainder thoughout the nearby communities.
What are the risks of asbestos exposure from the fire?
SPS has also tested samples of debris from the site and nearby areas, and the debris sampled to date has been confirmed to be non-asbestos containing materials. Despite these results, SPS is proceeding carefully in clean up activities.
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 from yards and roofs/gutters. Residents who would like debris removed 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?
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 at least through May 18, 2025 and provide benefits at least through May 31st, while we assess damage and plan for the future.