Chicago Sun Times
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Six people were injured, two seriously, after a chemical spilled in a Far South Side industrial building, causing a hazardous materials situation Monday morning.
Emergency crews responded to a Level 1 HazMat on the 340 block of East 138th St. at about 10:36 a.m., according to Fire Media Affairs Assistant Director Eve Rodriguez. The building is Cygnus Corporation, a subsidiary of Packaging Advantage Company, according to Cygnus’ website.
Apparently, a vat containing some type of fatty acid spilled. Some workers were trying to clean up the non-toxic chemical when they became ill from inhaling the chemical, which was a mild irritant, Fire Media Affairs Chief Kevin MacGregor said. One worker slipped on the substance and hit his head, MacGregor said. The company seems to deal with detergent.
Six workers were transported to area hospitals. Four workers were taken to Roseland Community Hospital and Jackson Park Hospital and Medical Center in fair to good condition, McGregor said.
Two people were transported in serious condition, one was taken to Saint Francis Hospital and Health Center in Blue Island and the other was taken to Sisters of St. Francis Health Services Saint Margaret Mercy in Hammond, Indiana, he said.
The scene was secured at 11:45 a.m.