Enviro
22:54, 11-Nov-2018
Experts respond to concerns after Quangang petrochemical spill
Updated
21:51, 14-Nov-2018
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Toxic fumes from the spill resulted in the hospitalization of 52 residents as of November 9. Patients complained of dizziness, nausea, and vomiting caused by exposure to the leaked chemical.
Experts from institutes include Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences and State Oceanic Administration's No.3 Ocean Institute were invited by Fujian authorities to conduct field investigation at the harbor where the leak happened on Friday, and responded to concerns people have towards the incident on Saturday.
How can C9 affect human body?
C9 is a type of aromatic hydrocarbon resin chemically manufactured from oil and it's toxic to humans. Through long-term exposure, C9 could irritate the eyes, nose and lungs and cause headaches and dizziness, said experts.
In answering questions around whether C9 aromatic hydrocarbons is toxic and can cause cancer, experts explained that C9 is not listed as hazardous or highly toxic chemical by Chinese authorities, and it won't cause major harm to human body through short-term exposure.
Why is there still a peculiar smell?
Although the index of atmospheric environmental monitoring and assessment is within the normal range, people in the surrounding areas of the spill claimed that they could still detect a peculiar smell.
Through the filed investigation, experts observed that the surface oil in the ocean has been basically cleaned up, but a small amount of oil still remained on fishing nets, seaside rocks and the shore. Volatilized oil is considered as a reason for the peculiar smell.
What can be done in ecological restoration?
Based on the current situation, experts suggest continuing to clean the residual oil, and replacing fishing rafts that are difficult to clean to prevent secondary pollution.
Strengthening the monitoring and analysis of seawater and air quality in the surrounding areas of the incident is also necessary.
(Top image via CCTV)