The alarm was activated by staff who detected an odour on site caused by unexpected reaction in a production vessel.
The chemicals involved are used to manufacture acrylic emulsions used typically in textile treatments and paints.
Two of the chemicals had a pungent odour and there were concerns about the toxicity of another.
Once in attendance fire crews were confronted with a strong chemical odour and immediately secured the area.
An emergency management team consisting of CFA, Victoria Police, the Health Commander (Ambulance Victoria), local council representatives. the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), and Nuplex Resins was established to manage the incident and assess any threat to public safety.
Initial concerns were for the health of residents who may be susceptible to respiratory illness – particular the elderly and young and for the hospitals and aged facilities located nearby.
A potential impact zone was identified and it was decided to recommend that residents in a 300 meter zone evacuate to a safer area.
The Ovens College hall in Greta Road, Wangaratta was identified as a suitable site away from any threat and RCO Wangaratta staff & Victoria Police opened the facility as a precaution.
Ambulance Victoria transported 4 people to Wangaratta Hospital as a precaution with mild symptoms and a small number of people were treated at the evacuation / relief centre for minor irritations.
CFA and EPA have been conducting thorough testing around the Wangaratta township for a number of hours and no dangerous levels have been detected.
There is no reason for any concerns as the vapour cloud has dissipated over night, however people may detect a spasmodic unpleasant odour for a number of days as pockets of residue slowly disperse.
All areas are now open to the public and residents are free to return to their homes.
Our advice to residents of Wangaratta is to air your homes out and to monitor the CFA website for further information.
ENDS
Below is online coverage collated by Fairfax Media
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