Photo: Getty Images
LOS ANGELES (CNS) - A chemical leak at a business in the Atwater Village area prompted a hazardous-materials response and an evacuation today, but no injuries were reported.
The problem was reported about 8:40 a.m. at Huntsman Chemical in the 4500 block of West Electronics Place, said Margaret Stewart of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
``This incident was initially received as an `automatic fire alarm' and the first responding fire company upgraded it to a hazardous materials response with additional requested resources en route,'' Stewart said in a statement.
The building was evacuated as a precaution, Stewart said.
``A metal vessel was being prepared for packaging/distribution and a small valve broke, expelling gas into the air creating a small cloud which rapidly dissipated,'' Stewart said. ``There was no fire, no explosion, no injuries and no medical complaints.
``Hazardous materials firefighters made entry with specialized gas meters and determined there is no current threat -- there were no readings of concern on the meters,'' Stewart said late Thursday morning.
``Residents in the area detecting an unusual odor have been recommended to shelter in place, closing doors and windows,'' Stewart said.
``If they wish to leave the area, the recommended direction of travel is south of the incident.''
Stewart said the product was RenInfusion 8610, a one-component epoxy system that was being processed for transport.
``Residents in areas affected by the dissipating cloud who experienced any medical distress are recommended to seek medical advice through their health care provider,'' Stewart said.
``The product's corrosive hazards are with direct contact when it's in a liquid state,'' Stewart said. ``No workers on scene exhibited any medical complaints.''