As previously reported, on January 9, 2014 a chemical spill occurred into the Elk River in West Virginia involving a compound used in the coal-prep process. Residents in Kanawha, Boone, Putnam, Lincoln, Logan, Clay, Roane and Jackson Counties have been affected, and the governor has issued a state of emergency. Residents in the impacted counties have been advised against using water for drinking, cooking, bathing or doing laundry.
The chemical at issue, 4-Methylcyclohexane Methanol, has produced a noxious odor across the Kanawah Valley that has been described as similar to licorice or cough syrup.Concerns exist for those exposed to the chemical both in the air and water. Symptoms of exposure include severe burning in throat, severe eye irritation, non-stop vomiting, trouble breathing or severe skin irritation such as skin blistering. Local health departments have advised businesses, schools and restaurants to shut down.
According to a safety data sheet, is a combustible liquid. First aid measures for exposure are as follows:
Inhalation: Call emergency medical service. Move victim to fresh air. Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Keep victim warm and quiet. Treat symptomatically and supportively. Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves.
Skin contact: Call a poison center or doctor if you feel unwell. In case of contact with substance, immediately flush skin with running water for at least 20 minutes. Treat symptomatically and supportively. Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves.
Eye contact: In case of contact with substance, immediately flush eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes. If eye irritation persists get medical advice/attention. Move victim to fresh air. Check for and remove any contact lenses. Keep victim warm and quiet. Treat symptomatically and supportively. Effects of exposure to substance may be delayed. Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves.
Ingestion: If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately and show the container or label. Loosen tight clothing such as a collar, tie, belt or waistband. If a person vomits place them in the recovery position so that vomit will not reenter the mouth and throat. Rinse mouth. Keep victim warm and quiet. Treat symptomatically and supportively. Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves.
If you have been exposed, seek medical attention immediately. If you have questions about your legal rights as a result of the West Virginia Chemical Spill, contact the American Injury Attorney Group. We will review your case and, if you have a valid claim, we will connect you with an experienced West Virginia Chemical Spill Lawyer who will help you through the legal process. The time to bring your claim may be limited, so contact the American Injury Attorney Group today.
