Community not at risk from chemical release
Published: 9th November 2011
Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW) advises that the Newcastle community is not at risk following the release of ammonia this afternoon at the Orica plant located on Kooragang Island.
Firefighters were called to the plant around 3.30pm following reports of a chemical spill.
“We have been liaising with plant operators and it appears that a tank containing ammonia has vented some of the chemical due to a build up in pressure. The tank has been isolated and the residual pressure is being transferred to another tank so the risk of further releases is very low,” said Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Brown.
“Firefighters, including hazardous material specialists, have been monitoring the situation and air samples indicate that there is no risk to the public or plant staff. No evacuations have been required.”
Firefighters remain on scene and will continue to monitor the situation.