A chemical leak at an industrial plant in Freeport prompted a shelter-in-place order, according to Brazosport CAER. The order has since been lifted.
Tuesday afternoon, a source with the International Union of Operating Engineers confirmed to KPRC 2’s Jaewon Jung that four workers were taken to a nearby hospital after being exposed to the chlorine. Three of the four have been released, while the fourth is still being treated.
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Statement from Olin Corporation:
The chlorine release in Olin’s Freeport, Texas, Plant B has been stopped. The precautionary community shelter in place has been lifted in all areas. Site Emergency Response was immediately engaged, and the leak was stopped. Employees at the facility took immediate safety precautions while a team began working to address the situation. All personnel have been accounted for, and those who were potentially exposed are being evaluated by medical personnel. We are conducting a thorough analysis to identify the cause of the release. Olin is appreciative of the rapid response and support of all site and local emergency response teams during this incident. The safety of our employees, the community, and our environment is always our top priority.
What happened?
CAER sirens begin blaring around 9 a.m. after an active chlorine gas release at Dow Chemical’s Olin unit in Plant B, officials said. At least 1 person was treated but their condition was not disclosed.
Lake Jackson Police Department confirmed there was an active level 3 chlorine release from Dow Chemical. Level 3 means the gas is outside of the confines of the facility.
Employees at the facility were instructed to follow safety protocols as crews worked to address the situation, according to reports.
At 9:46 a.m., Brazosport CAER’s said the leak has stopped but the shelter-in-place is still in effect for cities of Clute and Lake Jackson, as a precaution.
Brazosport Independent School District said its campuses have gone into shelter in place, doors will remain shut and students will not be released until an “All Clear” is given by local authorities.
Police advise for impacted residents to remain indoors with doors and windows closed and air conditioners off.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.