Сontainer terminal at Port of Tacoma closes by chemical spill

One of the Port of Tacoma’s larger container terminals was closed for part of Tuesday while environmental workers cleaned up an early morning chemical spill, Thenewstribune reports.


The leaking container held a chemical called chlorobenzotrifluoride. According to the Tacoma Fire Department, the chemical is a solvent used in the printing industry.


The chemical leaked in two spots, one on the dock at 1815 Port of Tacoma Road, the other on the ship’s hull.


Firefighters were called to the pier shortly before 4 a.m. to investigate the spill where the Hyundai Oakland containership was unloading.


Chlorobenzotrifluoride is highly flammable and can irritate skin, eyes and the respiratory system.


Medics responded to check out two people who complained of eye irritation. Both were treated at the scene and released with no significant injuries, the department said.


An environmental cleanup firm contracted by the terminal operator was called to the scene to decontaminate the area.


The containership arrived shortly before 4 p.m. Monday at the terminal from Busan, South Korea. It was scheduled to depart for Seattle at 3 a.m. today, said Port of Tacoma spokeswoman Tara Mattina.


No new sailing schedule has been set.
(Source:http://en.portnews.ru)