(Editor’s note: Between this and the massive Sunoco gasoline spill into a river it’s been one heck of a scary week.)

The Atchison City, Kansas, Manager’s Office reported two days ago that sodium hydrochlorite, also known as sodium hypochlorite, and sulfuric acid, were accidentally mixed together in the wrong holding tank on Friday morning, at MGP Ingredients Inc., causing a reaction. Because of the chemical spill, 102 people had to be treated in hospital.

While most patients were treated, observed and released, three patients had to be admitted to Atchison Hospital and one was admitted to the ICU but was in stable condition. (One additional patient was transferred to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph for heart problems relating to the spill.)

Thankfully, by 11 a.m. on Friday, the emissions had dispersed and the air was safe to breathe because huge gas clouds had appeared throughout the city for almost 90 minutes. In fact, for nearly two hours authorities asked about 11,000 Atchison residents to just stay inside.

MGP said in a news release that they reported the event to the EPA, as well as state and local authorities, and were “cooperating fully to investigate and ensure that all appropriate response actions are taken.”

So, what exactly happens when sodium hydrochlorite and sulfuric acid mix? Our friends at KSHB explained:

“Sodium hydrochlorite is a stabilized form of chlorine.

(It’s also not the same strength you use in your house which is only about 3 percent to 6 percent sodium hydrochlorite AND is mixed with water. Also, because chlorine is also broken down by sunlight that might explain why the gas dispersed later in the day.)

Sulfuric acid is an extremely corrosive oxidizer.

When mixed together, the two chemicals create a very toxic chlorine gas.”

If you have been exposed you may notice nose, throat, eye irritation and or a headache. Pay attention to how you are feeling and treat your symptoms with a shower, rest in cool air, and take Benadryl. However, if you are wheezing or have an excessive cough, go to the emergency room.

 

Source: KSHB