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Vancouver Fire HazMat team assists with chemical mixture

The Vancouver Fire Department (VFD) responded to the scene of a chemical mixture incident Tuesday.

By Clark County Today · October 4, 2022
Vancouver Fire HazMat team assists with chemical mixture
The Vancouver Fire Department (VFD) responded to the scene of a chemical mixture incident Tuesday.
HazMat team members prepare to make entry into the structure. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department
HazMat team members prepare to make entry into the structure. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department

The potential exposure was caused by two acids being accidentally combined in the same storage container

The Vancouver Fire Department (VFD) responded to the scene of a chemical mixture incident Tuesday.

Three VFD engines, a ladder truck and members of the Hazardous Materials team responded to 1701 W. 16th St, the site of Northwest Packing, for the report of inhalation exposure to several employees. 

The entry team deconning after returning. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department
The entry team deconning after returning. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department

The potential exposure was caused by two acids being accidentally combined in the same storage container. Twelve employees who were in the area of the vapor release evacuated outside where they were evaluated by American Medical Response paramedics. All employees refused transport. 

HazMat team members being briefed by plant personnel. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department
HazMat team members being briefed by plant personnel. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department

The VFD HazMat team donned Level A chemical suits and entered the structure to check for excessive heat of the combined chemicals, ensure the integrity of the container, and to shut down several plant operations that could not safely continue unmanned. A total of 17 fire department personnel were on scene to mitigate the situation.

John Mosely (left) and Captain Travis Kent, both Hazardous Materials technicians, prepare to go inside to mitigate the situation. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department
John Mosely (left) and Captain Travis Kent, both Hazardous Materials technicians, prepare to go inside to mitigate the situation. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department
Firefighters John Mosely and Travis Kent get equipment before going inside. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department
Firefighters John Mosely and Travis Kent get equipment before going inside. Photo courtesy Vancouver Fire Department

Information provided by Vancouver Fire Department.

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