SALISBURY TWP., Pa. – Some students in Lehigh County had to head home shortly after arrival over a reported chemical spill.
It happened Monday morning at Salisbury High School.
Emergency services were notified out of an abundance of caution because the source of the spill could not immediately be located, according to a news release from District Superintendent Lynn Fuini-Hetten.
As a precaution, students and staff were safely evacuated to the stadium, where all students were accounted for before being dismissed or bused home, according to the news release.
After investigating, emergency personnel identified the substance as butanol, a scientific solvent, Fuini-Hetten said.
According to the news release, the leak was contained within a hazardous material storage cabinet, which functioned as designed and prevented further exposure.
Fuini-Hetten said the source of the leak was determined to be a broken container inside the cabinet.
The spill was isolated, contained, and cleaned up by qualified responders, according to the news release.
Fuini-Hetten said the area was thoroughly inspected by emergency services and determined to be safe for re-entry.
School is set to resume as usual Tuesday.
“I am extremely grateful to our staff, students, and first responders for their quick and calm actions,” said Lynn Fuini-Hetten.
“Safety is always our top priority, and the protocols in place worked exactly as intended.”
Principal Heather Morningstar said, “I am proud of how our students and staff responded today during the chemical spill evaluation. Their calm cooperation and adherence to safety procedures ensured a smooth and secure outcome for everyone.”