Suspected Acid Explosion at Mining Supply Company

Emergency crews were called Thursday morning to an industrial business in Sudbury in Northern Ontario, CAN, that manufactures specialty mining supply equipment after a chemical reaction created red/orange smoke, alarming residents.

An emergency call about a suspected acid explosion at Quatro Industries was received just after 9 a.m., Greater Sudbury Deputy Fire Chief Jesse Oshell told CTVNewsNorthernOntario.ca.

A chemical reaction occurred in a container an acid product was being mixed in, actually.

"That reaction caused a vapour cloud which was noticeable by individuals passing by and the establishment worked to put the product outside in a safe location," said Oshell.

The container was moved outside as the toxic vapours posed a danger to the employees inside the building.

There were about 15 to 20 employees who were evacuated as a result.

Anyone who came in contact with the product was assessed by paramedics, but no injuries have been reported, said Oshell. "Once it got outside and started to dissipate, it got carried off by prevailing winds."

The smoke wasn't drifting towards local businesses or residences, he added, but nearby establishments were also evacuated until crews could assess the risk.

"As there is no vapour cloud plume cloud or major reaction going on with the product there is at this time very low risk in the immediate area and no impact to the broader community around the businesses," Oshell said.

The hazardous materials team assessed the situation.

The Ontario Ministry of Labour has confirmed it is involved in the investigation of the chemical explosion.

The Labour Ministry said a provincial inspector has attended at the scene.

Quatro Industries Ltd manufactures specialty mining supply equipment and provides services to address the unique needs of the mining industry. Equipment includes conveyors, material handling, decanting bags and bins, mine foam, and more.