Firefighters Contain Sulfuric Acid Leak At Fermilab In Batavia

BATAVIA, IL — Multiple area fire departments responded to a hazmat leak at Fermilab in Batavia Monday afternoon. The slow leak, which came from a 400-gallon tank of sulfuric acid, was noticed by an employee around 2:30 p.m. Monday, according to a news release.

Just after 6 p.m., FermiLab officials said the "pinhole-sized leak" was contained and that there had been no harm to the environment. A hazmat crew then came to the scene to clean up any spilled acid and to remove the remainder of the sulfuric acid from the tank.

The sulfuric acid tank, which is used for water treatment, is housed in Fermilab's Central Utility Building. Fermilab Fire Department said there were no injuries to report and there is no risk to those who live nearby.

Sulfuric acid is a highly corrosive chemical and can be dangerous if touched, inhaled, or swallowed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Extensive exposure can be deadly.

This is a developing story; check back for updates.

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