Phthalic Anhydride Leak Prompts Hazmat Investigation In South Philly
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A leak of phthalic anhydride, a material used in the making of plastic that goes into fiberglass, prompted a hazmat investigation in South Philadelphia on Tuesday.
It happened around 3 p.m. at Ashland's manufacturing located in the 2800 block of Columbus Boulevard.
UPDATE: Columbus Blvd remains closed, Synder Ave south to Pattison Ave. Oregon Ave closed Front Street east to Delaware River. #HazMat
— 3rd Police District (@PPD03Dist) October 3, 2017
"The phthalic anhydride was released into a containment dike on the plant property. Vapor from the molten material condensed in the air, causing flakes of the material to settle on or just outside the plant property," said a spokesperson for Ashland.
Columbus Boulevard has been shut down near Oregon Avenue due to the incident. Police have asked businesses in the area to shelter-in-place with doors closed and their air conditioning off.
Businesses in area of Columbus Blvd. & Oregon Ave. are asked to shelter in place with doors closed and air condition system off.
— 3rd Police District (@PPD03Dist) October 3, 2017
No injuries have been reported.
The cause of the accident is under investigation.