An unidentified hazardous materials leak at a distribution warehouse in Lancaster on Monday left more than a dozen people needing medical care.
Fifteen people at a United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) facility were hospitalized following the chemical leak, with most of the affected individuals being transported to Parkland Health Systems in Dallas, according to NBC 5.
The condition of the exposed workers is currently unknown.
Hazmat crews from Lancaster, Grand Prairie, Cedar Hill, Ovilla, and Glenn Heights responded to reports of the leak at the warehouse on Danieldale Road, according to WFAA. UNFI officials said workers began smelling an odor they believed to be ammonia around noon.
The CDC reports that exposure to ammonia can cause a burning sensation in the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as coughing, narrowing of the throat, and even fluid buildup in the lungs.
The warehouse was subsequently evacuated. The hazmat teams were able to clear the entire area by 5 p.m.
Although the leaked material was initially reported to be ammonia, that has not yet been confirmed. The cause of the leak is also still under investigation.
Keaira English, a spokesperson for the City of Lancaster, told NBC 5 that until the chemical can be identified, it will be known as a “hazardous material.” No health advisories or health warnings have been issued to the public as a result of the leak.
“The safety of our associates is our top priority, and we are working closely with the fire department to assess the situation and determine when it is safe to open and return to the [distribution center],” said UNFI, according to WFAA.
Earlier this year, Harris County Public Health issued a Shelter in Place notification for local residents following an anhydrous ammonia chemical leak at a Katy retail distribution center, as The Dallas Express reported.
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