EMR Begins Phased Reopening of Camden Facility with FireSMART
Metal Recycling News | 2026-07-14 07:15:30
The program focuses on five key areas—Source, Manage, Assess, Respond, and Train—covering every stage of the recycling process.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): EMR has started the phased reopening of its Waterfront South recycling facility in Camden, New Jersey, following a series of fires that led to operational disruptions. The company said the site resumed limited operations on July 13 and is expected to return to full capacity by July 17.
As part of the reopening, EMR has introduced a new safety initiative called FireSMART, a comprehensive operating framework designed to reduce fire risks, particularly those linked to lithium-ion batteries.
The program focuses on five key areas—Source, Manage, Assess, Respond, and Train—covering every stage of the recycling process.
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The company has also reconfigured the Camden site to improve fire prevention. The newly implemented measures include dedicated material handling zones separated by fire breaks, reduced stockpile sizes, enhanced screening of incoming scrap using trained personnel and thermal scanners, and revised processing schedules to limit the buildup of unprocessed material.
The framework also introduces continuous monitoring through a 24/7 fire watch, thermal imaging cameras, automated water cannons, and updated emergency response procedures. Employees will beprovided regular training on identifying and handling lithium-ion battery risks.
POLL
Which FireSMART measure do you believe will have the greatest impact on preventing recycling facility fires?
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did EMR begin reopening its Camden recycling facility?
EMR resumed limited operations on July 13, 2026, with full operations expected by July 17, 2026.
- What are the five pillars of the FireSMART program?
The program is built around Source, Manage, Assess, Respond, and Train.
- What new fire prevention measures has EMR introduced?
Measures include dedicated material handling zones with fire breaks, reduced stockpile sizes, thermal scanning of incoming scrap, revised processing schedules, thermal imaging cameras, automated water cannons, and a 24/7 fire watch.
