Five residents were treated for sickness, 15 homes and four factories were evacuated and roads closed following an industrial accident at the Kronos factory Saturday morning in Varennes.
The factory, off the eastern tip of the island of Montreal, was the site of an equipment breakdown at about 10 a.m.
About 40,000 tons of titanium tetrachloride spilled out from containers inside the plant and all but 5,000 tons of that total was recovered into collectors within the facility. The other 5,000 tons was vaporized into the atmosphere, according to a Kronos representative.
Kronos factory produces titanium pigment for industrial paint.
The municipality later issued a note saying that there is no danger to those 400 metres or further from the accident.
In an afternoon press conference, municipal authorities acknowledged that a foul odour could be expected but was not necessarily a health threat. Authorities recommended that nearby residents stay indoors until the air clears. Winds were light in the area Saturday.
In a subsequent press conference held after 5 p.m. a variety of authorities expressed confidence that the situation was fully under control.
Those evacuated from their homes were directed to the local seniors facility. It appears that the evacuees made other arrangements, however as none were present when CTV Montreal visited early Saturday afternoon. Two eventually showed up and were among the five that complained of sickness.
The Quebec Environment Ministry noted that the chemical was potentially toxic. Titanium tetrachloride when mixed with water can cause symptoms of eye and throat irritation. No injuries have been reported and the factory workers are said to be safe.
Environment Canada sent an emergency crew to the site.
