By Kristin Askelso
The Advocate
LAFAYETTE PARISH, La. — Ten people were taken to hospitals after a chemical leak Tuesday morning at a business on Lexington Drive in Lafayette Parish, according to Louisiana State Police.
Troopers with the agency’s Emergency Services Unit responded shortly after 7 a.m. to a hazardous materials incident. Investigators said a valve malfunction involving boron trifluoride caused the leak at FIBA Technologies.
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Duson Police Chief Kip Judice said it took about an hour to close the valve and stop the leak, which was successfully contained by around 8 a.m. During the response, multiple locations were evacuated, including FIBA Technologies, Race Connections and two additional businesses in the immediate area.
Hazardous materials crews later contained the leak, and all evacuation and shelter-in-place orders have been lifted. Officials said there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Judice initially reported that three plant workers and three firefighters — all first responders from local fire departments — were transported to local hospitals for exposure-related treatment. By mid-afternoon that number was updated to 10 by state police.
Those hospitalized include three first responders, six employees of the affected business and one employee from a nearby business. All injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening.
Judice said crews may briefly turn the valve back on under controlled conditions to test the integrity of the system. He emphasized that personnel from the company, along with state police and other agencies were on site and prepared to respond immediately to any complications.
“They’re telling me the threat level is very minimal for any additional release, and that we’re in good hands with the professionals on the scene,” Judice said.
Louisiana State Police is leading the investigation, which remains ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
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