Five injured, 60 treated after chemical leak at North York recycling plant

A chemical leak at a North York recycling facility has left five injured and forced dozens more to undergo decontamination procedures after the exposure.

The leak of an as-yet unidentified substance was found early Friday at Canada Fibers Ltd., a recycling plant near Arrow Rd. and Sheppard Ave.

“Some material on the line started to disperse a noxious substance,” said Toronto Fire District Chief Stephan Powell, elaborating that it was a minor irritant. “People started to have some trouble breathing.”

Toronto paramedics and firefighters worked to treat upwards of 60 workers for the chemical exposure. Five were treated for minor injuries, with two transported to hospital.

“They were exposed to some sort of noxious substance and were treated for minor respiratory symptoms,” Toronto paramedics said.

Toronto Fire set up two decontamination sites — one to decontaminate workers, and another to aide firefighters in determining the leaked substance.

“We scoured the plant; we took air quality readings and decided we are going to keep the people out of the work area of the plant,” said Powell.

Fire officials have not yet found the source of the leak.

Courtesy : thestar.com