While the leak did not trigger an official investigation by WorkSafe New Zealand, a spokesman from the organisation said an inspector had been in touch with the Oamaru company and asked it to undertake a voluntary duty holder review to identify the root and underlying causes of the accident.
No-one from Oamaru Meats could be reached for comment.
On August 19, Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) sent crews from Oamaru, Weston and Timaru to contain a dangerous gas which was released when two chemicals, citric acid and sodium chlorite, came into contact at the meatworks, formerly called Lean Meats Oamaru Ltd.
The next day, Oamaru Volunteer Fire Brigade Chief Fire Officer Steve Couper said when the chemicals combined they gave off heat, but also chlorine dioxide gas - ``a real nasty''.
``I know when we started diluting it down, the gas cloud was a green-yellowy colour. It's pretty dangerous stuff.''
The WorkSafe spokesman said a duty holder review was voluntary.
``WorkSafe will offer advice, if necessary, on the review process and report to help identify areas for consideration during the review. WorkSafe also oversees that a duty holder has engaged in improving health and safety systems and that the appropriate actions, if any, have been or will be addressed.''
Mr Couper said the location of the plant, outside the town, and the wind direction during the emergency response was ``fortunate'', and it made it easier to contain the gas.
WorkSafe was asked what action would be taken to ensure the town did not have to be lucky if another chemical leak occurred again at Oamaru Meats, but the agency did not answer.
``In relation to the incident we are not able to comment further as this will be covered in the review. It is the duty of the person conducting a business or undertaking - Oamaru Meats - to ensure the health and safety of workers and others.''
