Politics & Government
World War I-Era Chemical Found on Aberdeen Proving Ground
Follow up analysis on a hazardous materials issue that began Tuesday indicated the World War I-era chemical agent called Lewisite was present.
Traces of a chemical dating back to World War I were found at a demolition site on Tuesday, but APG personnel and Harford County residents are not facing any adverse health risks as a result, a release from APG states.
As a precaution, demolition work has stopped and debris at the demolition site is being capped with a cover to ensure continuing public safety, according to the release.
to a report of an unusual odor Tuesday night. Crews responded again Wednesday afternoon, and determined that no hazardous materials were present, Acting Garrison Public Affairs Officer Adriane Foss told Patch.
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The odor was reported after pipes were broken during a routine demolition activity in the Edgewood area of APG, Foss said.
But Thursday, lab analysis of samples taken from the area confirmed a World War I-era chemical agent called Lewisite was present at the demolition site, according to a release from APG.
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No one on or near APG has suffered any negative health issues as a result of the chemical, and APG emergency services assures there is no potential for hazardous conditions to impact personnel at APG or in neighboring communities, the release states.
"Safety remains our number one concern, and the post will use all assets at its disposal to assure that safety," the release states.
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