Global Security Newswire

Workers at the Umatilla Chemical Depot yesterday found another mustard agent leak in one of its igloo storage units, the sixth such leak detected at the Oregon facility in three months, the Tri-City Herald reported (see GSN, July 24).

Umatilla generally experiences more leaks in the summer, when containers holding the deadly blister agent tend to thaw. The igloos where the mustard containers are stored are fitted with air filters that prevent any dangerous fumes from escaping.

Yesterday's leak did not threaten the surrounding public or environment, according to depot officials.

The Oregon installation, which has stored U.S. chemical weapons for decades, is currently in the process of destroying its mustard agent stockpiles (Tri-City Herald, July 27).