Firefighters worked to cool down an overheated rail car tank at SABIC Innovative Plastics in Selkirk Tuesday morning. Bethlehem Police and Selkirk Fire responded to the scene at 6 a.m.. They said an unknown amount of styrene was released from a rail car on the property.
Styrene is a synthetic chemical used when manufacturing plastics. When released into the air, the chemical could cause irritation of skin, eyes, and trouble breathing.
“The release of this hazardous chemical has been halted and state personnel are on the scene now working to contain any potential spread,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said in a release. “While this is an evolving situation, it is currently under control and we will continue coordinating with local officials and mobilize any resources necessary to protect the health and safety of New Yorkers in the affected area.”