UK Building reopened after Hazmat Response

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – University officials say a fire alarm was pulled after some employees started to feel nausea and eye irritation after what was described as a foul odor.

No major injuries or damage occurred, says University Public Relations, and 10 people were provided with decontamination prior to being transported to the hospital. Nine of them, made of College of Agriculture employees and contracted movers, were evaluated and released, while officials say the final person is being kept for observation.

The chemical that likely caused the symptoms and nasty smell is currently unknown, says officials.

University authorities say the refrigerator had been unplugged overnight.  Cleared of any contents, it had recently been moved from Gluck Equine Center to the Dimock building without any odor being noticed until today.

The Lexington Fire Department’s Hazerdous Materials operation said they responded as they normally would to a chemical contamination, donning protective gear and sealing the source.

The building was tested by UK environment management for further chemical residue shortly after 1:30 p.m., but it was deemed clear and reopened by 2:45 p.m.