FINAL UPDATE: September 22, 2023, 1:59 p.m.
The hazmat incident at Quala has been resolved. Hazmat technicians neutralized the chemical reaction and transferred the liquid solution to a safe container. The private company specializing in hazardous material disposal removed the solution from the premises.
UPDATE: September 21, 2023, 8:31 p.m.
Hazmat technicians with Lafayette Fire and Louisiana State Police have stabilized the chemical solution. A barrier dike was placed around the plastic tote in case a leak would occur overnight.
A private company experienced with hazardous material incidents arrived on the scene to monitor the situation throughout the night. The solution is expected to maintain its stability. There’s no concern about any additional off-gassing.
Hazmat teams will report to the scene in the morning to assess and mitigate the incident.
Original September 21, 2023
LAFAYETTE, LA – At 12:03 p.m., the Lafayette Fire Department Hazmat Team responded to a reported hazardous materials situation at the business of Quala in the 3200 block of Cameron Street. The Lafayette Hazmat Team arrived on the scene and noticed a 275-gallon plastic tote with approximately sixty gallons of liquid inside the loading area of the business. Hazmat technicians indicated that a chemical reaction was occurring, producing orange smoke. The area was cordoned off, and employees were evacuated from the business.
Employees at the business indicated that they were mixing several chemicals in the tote when the reaction occurred. They immediately called 911. No injuries were reported.
Louisiana State Police Hazmat is also on the scene assisting the Lafayette Fire Department.
No further details are available at this time. Once it becomes available, more information will be released.
