L&I investigating beverage company after two ammonia leaks this week

The Washington Department of Labor and Industries has launched an investigation into the Johanna Beverage Company at 5625 W. Thorpe Road after two ammonia leaks this week sparked evacuations.

An inspector was on site at Thursday afternoon, said L&I spokeswoman Elaine Fischer, but a complete report could take two months to complete. Johanna Beverage does not have any previous safety complaints on file, she said.

The first leak was reported Saturday evening and caused fire crews to evacuate homes and businesses within a third of a mile. Eight employees were sickened and one was taken to the hospital.

The second leak Wednesday evening was much larger and people as far north as Sunset Boulevard and as far east as Highway 195 were told to evacuate or shelter in place. Interstate 90 was shut down for nearly an hour. Only minor symptoms were reported and none required treatment, according to fire personnel on scene.

The facility makes juices sold under the Earth Wise, Washington Natural, Tree Ripe, Ssips and Citrus Sunshine brands, according to the company’s web site. A company representative declined to comment Thursday afternoon.