Leak occurred for 16 minutes....one injured.

The use of chlorine in our plants for the removal of contaminates (e.g., magnesium) is still commonplace throughout our industry. Here is a recent incident highlight the hazard associated with chlorine from safe transport, storage, and use in our plants.

 

A chlorine exposure incident happened Sunday afternoon at aluminium company in the USA one afternoon during the week of November 7, 2021.

 

The incident remains under investigation, however a spokeswoman from (local) Fire Department was able to confirm some of the details.

 

At around 1:30 p.m., emergency dispatch received a call from a (aluminum company) employee who reported accidental chlorine inhalation. A Hazmat response team was called to the scene, along with emergency responders. (Aluminium company) evacuated the immediate area. Hazmat arrived on scene, and a shut off was initiated. At 1:46, the leak was reported as stopped, and (aluminum company) began ventilating the site. The incident was reported to be under control. 

 

One person was transported to the hospital, but there is no update on the patient or their condition at this time.

 

We pray that the injured worker recovers fully. Symptoms of chlorine inhalation are as follows:

Chlorine poisoning can cause symptoms throughout your body. Respiratory symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, and fluid inside the lungs. 

Digestive system symptoms include: 

• burning in the mouth, 
• swelling of the throat, 
• throat pain, 
• stomach pain, 
• vomiting, 
• blood in the stools

A useful reference resource to the heathy of this hazard can be found here.

We do want to also note that this plant evacuated their personnel upon notification of the chlorine leak. When was the last time that your plant had an evacuation drill? If you can not quickly answer the question. Then it has been too long. 

Please comment.