Hazmat crews in Fort Collins were dispatched to a water-treatment facility this morning after workers discovered a leaking 100-pound barrel of chlorine gas.
Employees with the Eastern Larimer County water-treatment facility at county roads 11 and 58 reported the leaking barrel about 9 a.m., Poudre Valley Fire Authority spokesman Patrick Love said.
One engine and a Hazmat crew confirmed the leak, which had stopped by the time crews reached the barrel. The area was deemed safe, Love said.
Two employees of the facility were evaluated for exposure to the chemical, Love said, but they were released at the scene.
Chlorine gas is an irritant that can cause swelling throughout the respiratory system if inhaled and burns if it comes in contact with unprotected skin.
The facility is located in rural Larimer County, northeast of Fort Collins, and uses chlorine in the water-treatment process, Love said.
Chemical spills are a rare occurrence at the facility, he said. “It’s the kind of thing that almost never happens.”
Staff writer Cassie Hewlings can be reached at 303-954-1638 or chewlings@denverpost.com.
