Press Release - June 11, 2003 - Hazardous Materials Leak in Pocomoke City

Date:
June 11, 2003

Contact:
Robert Korb, Jr., CFI, CFPS – Fire Investigator / Inspector
Phone: (410) 632-5666 Ext.4; Email: rkorb@co.worcester.md.us

REPORTED HAZARDOUS MATERIALS LEAK IN POCOMOKE CITY

The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office and Worcester County Special Hazards Response Team investigated a report of a hazardous materials leak at a business in the Pocomoke Industrial Park this morning. The incident was reported to be at the Ricca East LLC Chemical Company located at 1841 Broad Street in Pocomoke City, Maryland. An employee of the business called the Worcester County Emergency Services Department to report a complaint of respiratory irritation from chemicals being used at the facility. Ricca East manufactures and distributes chemical testing solutions throughout North America.

Due to the high humidity in the atmosphere this morning, a hydrochloric acid solution being used to mix with other chemicals, created irritant fumes and filled the building.

The building was immediately evacuated and all employees were evaluated by the Pocomoke City EMS department. No employees were found to have any respiratory problems as a result from the incident.

The incident is listed as under control and has been forwarded to the Maryland Occupational Safety and Health Division (MOSH) for further investigation.

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