Duson Chemical Leak: 10 Hospitalized After Valve Malfunction Releases Toxic Gas at FIBA Technologies

DUSON, LA -- A routine Tuesday morning turned into a hazardous materials emergency in Duson after a chemical leak at an industrial facility sent ten people to area hospitals. The incident, which occurred shortly after 7 a.m. at the FIBA Technologies facility on Lexington Drive, involved the release of a toxic gas that prompted immediate evacuations of surrounding businesses.

The initial investigation by Louisiana State Police revealed that the leak was caused by a valve malfunction. The chemical involved was identified as boron trifluoride, a colorless but highly reactive gas known for its pungent and suffocating odor.

Impact and Hospitalizations

Among the ten individuals transported for medical evaluation were six employees of FIBA Technologies, three first responders who arrived at the scene, and one employee from a neighboring business. Medical officials have categorized the injuries as non-life-threatening, with most patients being treated for skin and respiratory irritation caused by exposure to the corrosive gas.

Boron trifluoride is notoriously reactive with moisture in the air. When released, it often forms dense white fumes as it creates hydrofluoric acid upon contact with humidity. This reaction was visible to local residents who reported seeing massive white clouds billowing behind a nearby truck stop.

Witness Accounts and Emergency Response

Julian Darby, a resident who was picking up breakfast for his children at the time, described the scene as the area behind the local Love's Travel Stop became completely whited out by the plume. Darby noted that he initially believed there was a major fire due to the sheer volume of sirens as fire trucks from Lafayette and Scott arrived to support local crews.

First responders acted quickly to establish a perimeter and evacuate nearby operations, including Waste Connections and other businesses within the industrial park. Hazardous materials teams were able to contain the source of the leak and close the faulty valve within approximately one hour of the initial release.

Properties of the Chemical

According to safety experts, boron trifluoride is a highly toxic gas that is corrosive to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Exposure can cause severe chemical burns and, in high concentrations, lead to more serious lung injuries. Because the gas is heavier than air, it can linger in low-lying areas, making the rapid response and containment by hazmat teams critical to preventing further exposure.

Louisiana State Police Troop I is leading the ongoing investigation into the mechanical failure. While the evacuation and shelter-in-place orders were lifted by Tuesday afternoon, officials are continuing to review safety protocols at the facility to prevent future malfunctions.

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