Army finds, fixes leaks in mustard containers

This story was published Thu, Oct 3, 2002

By the Herald staff

UMATILLA -- Umatilla Chemical Depot workers have identified the leaks in two mustard containers and sealed them to prevent any further seepage, said Mary Binder, an Army spokeswoman.

The first of two leaks was discovered Sept. 10 in an igloo that houses mustard agent stored in 1-ton containers. A second container in another earthen bunker was found leaking Sept. 24.

At that time, the source of the first leak had not been determined.

Binder said depot workers wearing protective gear entered the igloos and noticed a stain on one of the container's plugs, indicating the possibility of agent.

Both suspect containers were fitted and sealed with heavy plastic. A gas monitoring device confirmed the leaks.

Over the past two days, under continuous monitoring, Binder said there's been no evidence of agent leaking from either container in either of the igloos.

 

Copyright 2002 Tri-City Herald. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.