Chemical leak in West Virginia, USA causes 2 deaths, about 30 hospitalized

(CNA, Washington, 22nd, Composite Foreign Report) A chemical leak accident at a silver recycling company in West Virginia, USA, caused two deaths and sent about 30 people to the hospital today, with one person in critical condition.

According to an AP report, C.W. Sigman, director of the emergency management office for Kanawha County, stated that the leak occurred at the Catalyst Refiners plant in Institute while employees were preparing to shut down at least part of the facility.

Sigman said at a press conference that a chemical reaction occurred inside the plant involving nitric acid and another substance. "The chemicals reacted violently, resulting in an instantaneous overreaction," he noted. "Starting or ending a chemical reaction is usually the most dangerous time."

Ben Salango, president of the Kanawha County Commission, stated that the chemical reaction, believed to have occurred during a cleaning process, produced toxic hydrogen sulfide gas.

Officials reported that the injured included seven emergency medical personnel who had gone to the scene to handle the leak.

A spokesperson for the local hospital said most patients exhibited respiratory symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, sore throat, and itchy eyes.

Following the incident, authorities issued a shelter-in-place order for the surrounding area, which was lifted more than five hours later. Officials stated that all fatalities occurred inside the plant.

Authorities said local air quality and water sources are believed to be unaffected. (Translated by: Cai Jiamin) 1150422

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