This is an update following our live broadcast from Unarco earlier today. Employees at Unarco Material Handling Inc in Springfield were evacuated this morning after a fire erupted in the part of the plant where paint is applied, officials said.

When the Springfield Fire Department arrived heavy smoke and some fire was showing from the back of the plant, according to Springfield Fire Chief Jimmy Hamill.  Unarco is located on 16th Ave East in Springfield behind the Royal Inn. The call to 911 came in at 10:22 am Friday Morning.

According to Hamill, the fire was in the Paint-Line. Firefighters were able to knock down most the fire quickly but to fully access the fire a hole had to be cut in the roof. “Fortunately the sprinkler system had the fire in check. There was still quite a bit of fire but the Sprinkler system kept it contained to one area,” Hamil said.

According to Hamill, Unarco has an excellent safety record. “They have been in business for a long time and have excellent maintenance and safety people including good evacuation procedures. The cause of this fire is still under investigation but the last fire at Unarco was back in the late 90’s. When we arrived they had everyone evacuated and a representative was able to get with me, quickly, and tell me what exactly they had going on.” Hamill said.

Today’s fire damaged about 5% of the plant, Hamill said. Hamill said the rest of the plant was undamaged and employees should be able to go back to work.

The Emergency Management Agency assisted Springfield Fire and Robertson County EMS was on standby but no injuries were reported.

Hamill said he’s proud of the work the firefighters and officers did today.

Below is a recording of our live broadcast.