A July chemical release at the Haviland Enterprises plant in Grand Rapids, Mich., caused fire crews in the area to issue a temporary shelter-in-place order, reported the local ABC affiliate, WZZM. An oxidizer reaction sent a chemical plume into the air. During a shelter-in-place order, businesses and homes are urged to keep people inside with windows closed until the chemical dissipates to a safe level. WZZM reported the incident was under control in about an hour, and there were no injuries.
This is not the first time a chemical event has occurred at the Haviland plant. A similar incident took place last September, and in March 2014, a dry agent reaction occurred, requiring employees to evacuate. Haviland was ordered to pay a $3,500 fine, which was reduced to $1,750.
