A chemical spill at a local arena now has the attention of the province.
The Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change is working with the town of Amherstburg to determine how a large quantity of antifreeze spilled in a maintenance room at the Libro Centre on November 10 and spread to the sanitary sewer system.
Ministry spokesman Gary Wheeler confirms to BlackburnNewsWindsor.com that a spill took place. The antifreeze known as ethylene glycol is used to control temperature in refrigeration systems. The chemical is used at the Libro Centre in diluted form to help keep ice surfaces firm.
Roughly 400 L of the chemical were spilled, though the spillage into the sewer system posted no immediate threat to the public.
The Town of Amherstburg blames the incident on a valve malfunction that created an overflow.
There are two types of glycol: propylene and ethylene. Both are used to control temperature and lower the freezing point of water. Ethylene, however, is mildly toxic to humans and animals and can be harmful if ingested in large quantities.
Wheeler says the ministry works closely with local officials to ensure there is no public health threat and to take steps to make sure the incident doesn't happen again.
"We work with local communities and first responders to prevent and minimize impacts to the natural environment," says Wheeler in a statement. "Ministry staff will coordinate with local officials if necessary."
The arena's operations have not been affected by the incident. All events have been going on as scheduled.
The investigation is ongoing.
