At least 50 hospitalized after chemical spill at AL water treatment plant

Fourteen employees have been taken to the hospital after a chemical spill at a Birmingham Water Works treatment plant, according to police.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Fifteen workers have been hospitalized and another 35-40 have been transported for observation after a chemical spill at a Birmingham Water Works treatment plant.

The spill was caused by Ferric sulfate and Sodium hypochlorite mixing. The water supply is still safe to use, according to the Water Works. Authorities are moni

Multiple rescue and hazmat units are on the scene in the 2900 block of Shades Crest Road. Highway 280 is reopen after being closed for hours.

Hazmat crews have closed the valves involved at the Shades Mountain Water Treatment Facility.

The spill was caused by Ferric sulfate and Sodium hypochlorite. Effects of breathing in the chemicals include sneezing, nose irritation, throat irritation, nausea, headache, vomiting or a burning sensation, according to the Mountain Brook Police.

Five people are being treated at UAB Hospital, another six people have been taken to Grandview, one person was taken to Brookwood Baptist Medical Center. Six people were taken to Brookwood Baptist Medical Center Freestanding ED. St. Vincent’s Hospital is expecting up to 10 people.

The water supply is still safe to use, according to the Water Works. Authorities are monitoring the air.

All surface streets in Vestavia Hills are also open.

This story is developing.

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