FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. (WXYZ) — A chemical spill on the Farmington Hills-Livonia border forced officials to close Middlebelt Road near 8 Mile Road on Monday. The road remained closed for 21 hours, reopening Tuesday at 2:30 p.m.
According to the City of Livonia, 300 gallons of corrosive liquid spilled from a semi around 5:30 p.m. Monday.
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Officials say the corrosive chemical is ferric chloride. According to the National Institutes of Health, ferric chloride can cause severe injuries or burns, and exposure through inhalation, ingestion, or contact can be deadly. The compound can also react with water, producing a toxic gas.
However, according to the city, there is no community health risk.
The Farmington Hills Fire Department responded to the scene. The Livonia Fire Department also responded since the incident happened near the border of both cities.
Hazmat technicians with the Wayne Hazardous Materials Response Team, which consists of firefighters from the surrounding area, were activated to help contain the situation. The technicians wore specialized hazmat suits and entered the trailer to stop the leak.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy said the spill was reported to them, and that EGLE is supporting the cleanup efforts.
