Two APG Workers Checked for Phosgene Exposure

Two workers at the Aberdeen Proving Ground laboratory in Maryland were hospitalized yesterday for observation after possibly being exposed to the choking agent phosgene, the Associated Press reported (see GSN, June 25, 2004).

Researchers were testing the resistance of protective gear to phosgene at the same time maintenance workers were testing the building’s filter system. An alarm signaled when the ventilation system was turned off, AP reported.

Three laboratory workers and two maintenance personnel were evaluated at the Edgewood Area Clinic for possible exposure. All seemed unharmed, but two laboratory employees were taken to Upper Chesapeake Medical Center for additional checks, according to AP. It can take up to 48 hours for symptoms of phosgene exposure to appear.

No phosgene was found on the ventilation hood where the tests took place, and the chemical did not escape the building, officials said (Associated Press/WBALChannel.com, March 15).

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