A hazardous materials crew investigated a possible gaseous chemical leak from a 40-foot shipping container on a trailler in a shipping yard in Wilmington Friday.
Crews responded about 9:10 a.m. to a trailer at 920 W. Harry Bridges Blvd., according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The rig was isolated and a perimeter was set up at the shipping facility where the container is situated, according to an LAFD spokeswoman.
“Hazmat units are confirming the type of product per placards and air monitoring,” said department spokeswoman Jennifer Middleton.
An update issued just before noon stated “the substance in question is believed to be sodium hydroxide… .”
“This product poses no health hazard other than a topical irritation when touched,” according to Middleton, who described the situation as static, with a 500-foot perimeter set up. “There is no airborne threat associated with this product.”
Los Angeles Police Department hazardous materials handlers were dispatched to assist in opening the container, assessing additional possible risks or hazards and beginning off-loading the container, Middleton said, adding that the LAFD was in Unified Command with Los Angeles Port Police.
All railway operations were continuing in the area, despite what was expected to be an extended operation, she said.