Truck Leaks Chemicals in Saratoga Springs

Fire fighters in Saratoga Springs recently responded to a chemical spill at the Grande Industrial Park. 

The spill occurred on Friday Aug. 8 around 4:20 p.m. and involved a chemical later identified by the Saratoga Springs Fire Department as copper sulfate. The fire department said the incident was isolated and posed no hazard to the public. 

According to the fire department, the spill originated from a truck traveling to the industrial park and was first reported by an off duty first responder who noticed a blue liquid spilling from the truck heading North on Interstate 87. The fire department said that the responder had also contacted State Police regarding the matter. In addition, hazmat teams from Saratoga and Schenectady Counties were also requested on scene. 

On social media, multiple people complained about eye and throat irritation around the time and area of the leak. The fire department said they first became aware of these reports when someone came into a station complaining of eye irritation which started in the area of the Grande Industrial Park, however, the department said they couldn’t confirm or assess the cause of the symptoms. 

Copper sulfate is a compound comprised of copper and sulfuric acid which is used in a variety of applications, according to the National Institute of Health. Its uses include pesticides, dyes, medications, fertilizers and many others. 

The chemical is considered an irritant with short term exposure potentially resulting in irritation to the eyes, skin and respiratory system. According to NIH, first aid for these symptoms includes getting rest and fresh air if inhaled and washing impacted areas if one comes into contact with it.