At least 60 people were being treated for unspecified symptoms after an incident at Toledo, Ohio, business led to the release of a hazardous chemical, city officials said Wednesday.
The Toledo-Lucas County Health Department said in a statement Wednesday evening that the people were treated with “symptoms potentially related to the chemical release.”
A reduced evacuation order remained in place on Wednesday after the leak was first reported Tuesday night.
“The release has been confirmed as Glycidyl Methacrylate, which is classified as flammable and has a noticeable odor. It came from a 5,500-gallon tank because of an error that occurred when the material was being transferred,” Bryant Somerville, a spokesperson for the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, said in a statement.
Residents and motorists have been urged to avoid the area of Enterprise Blvd. and Progress Ave., according to city officials.
At a press conference Wednesday morning, Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz initially referred to the incident leading to the chemical leak as an “explosion,” however a city spokesperson later clarified there had not been an explosion.
Initially, the incident sparked an evacuation order for a 1-mile radius of the facility and a shelter-in-place for everyone within a 3-mile radius.
However, the shelter-in-place order was lifted Wednesday afternoon and the evacuation zone was reduced to a half-mile, according to an update from the city.
During the shelter-in-place, residents were instructed to remain indoors, close all windows and doors and turn off all ventilation systems that bring in outside air, according to the city.
Any residents outside the 3-mile radius who smell an odor are instructed to stay indoors, close windows and doors and turn off ventilation that draws in outside air, the city said.
The chemical released is glycidyl methacrylate, “an irritant that can cause burning of the eyes, nose, mouth, and skin,” according to the city.
In the statement, the health department said: “For those experiencing minor symptoms such as mild eye, throat, or skin irritation, they rinse the impacted area and contact their healthcare provider for additional guidance. If anyone is experiencing serious symptoms of exposure, which may include breathing difficulties, nausea and/or vomiting, dizziness, or confusion, they should go to a nearby emergency room.”
If you believe you are having a reaction to exposure, city officials urge you to contact a medical professional.
Emergency shelter locations were set up at the Meijer parking lot on Alexis Road and Shoreland Elementary School, according to the city.
MC Tank Transport released a statement confirming its equipment was involved in the incident. The company said the industrial chemical glycidyl methacrylate is used to make certain plastics, paints and coatings perform better.
“We understand the serious disruption this incident has caused to nearby residents and businesses, particularly those required to evacuate their homes. We are committed to assisting those affected,” the company said in a statement.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated.
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