The Incident
On September 27, 2022, twenty-three workers were taken to hospital following a hydrochloric acid spill at THK Rhythm Automotive Canada, an automotive steering and suspension parts plant in St. Catharines, Ontario.
Workers reported symptoms including shortness of breath, chest tightness, and burning sensations in their throat and eyes. Emergency crews, including hazmat teams, responded to the facility to contain the spill and treat affected workers.
What Went Wrong
Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a highly corrosive substance that produces toxic hydrogen chloride gas when released. In an enclosed factory environment, even a relatively small spill can expose dozens of workers to dangerous fume concentrations.
The fact that 23 workers required hospitalization suggests either a significant volume of acid was released, or the facility's ventilation and containment systems were inadequate to protect workers from exposure.
How WHMIS Training Could Have Helped
Mass chemical exposure events like this one highlight the importance of comprehensive WHMIS training for every worker in a facility:
Corrosion Pictogram: Hydrochloric acid carries the corrosion pictogram, indicating it can cause severe skin burns, eye damage, and corrosion of metals. Every worker in a facility that uses HCl should recognize this symbol and understand its implications.
SDS Section 4 — First Aid Measures: For HCl exposure, immediate actions include moving to fresh air, flushing eyes with water for at least 15 minutes, and removing contaminated clothing. WHMIS training ensures workers know these steps before an emergency occurs.
SDS Section 6 — Accidental Release Measures: Proper spill response for HCl includes evacuating the immediate area, avoiding breathing fumes, and using appropriate neutralizing agents. Workers trained in SDS interpretation can respond quickly and correctly.
Ventilation and Engineering Controls: SDS Section 8 specifies the need for local exhaust ventilation and respiratory protection when working with HCl. WHMIS training helps workers understand why these controls exist and what to do when they fail.
Emergency Evacuation: When 23 workers end up in hospital, the emergency response plan needs review. WHMIS training includes understanding workplace emergency procedures, alarm systems, and evacuation routes.
Twenty-three workers in hospital from a single acid spill. This is what happens when hazard communication fails. WHMIS training is the first line of defence.
Source: CBC News / ESE Magazine, September-October 2022