WATCH ABOVE: Sudbury police officers were forced to direct traffic after the leak was reported
TORONTO – City official say a hazardous gas leak reported Thursday morning at the Vale nickel mining smelter in Sudbury, Ont. has been contained.
An emergency was declared after nitrogen oxide and nitrogen dioxide “mist” leaked into the air at the Copper Cliff facility during a “planned maintenance period.”
“The emergency air horn was sounded at approximately 6:00 a.m.to notify residents in the nearby area,” said Vale spokesperson in a statement.
The city warned residents to remain indoors and to shut all doors and windows until an “all clear message” was sent out.
The threat level was deemed “level 3” earlier in the day but was downgraded to a “level 1” alert shortly after 8 a.m.
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“Emergency and Vale personnel are now satisfied that the NOx mist has dissipated given the wind speed and weather conditions and there is no risk of additional substance traveling beyond company boundaries. Therefore, there is no risk to the community,” said Vale.
No injuries were reported as a result of the leak.
A number of roads in the area were closed to traffic as a result of the gas leak but all have since reopened.
Sudbury police and emergency crews continue to remain on scene to ensure the safety of the public and to assess the further spread of the leak.
The Vale statement said exposure to nitrogen dioxide include symptoms such as throat, eye, skin and respiratory irritation.
Should they occur, a person should find fresh air and flush any irritated area with water. Medical attention is advised if symptoms persist.
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