Restrictions lifted in Longueuil, Que., after train derailment
At least one of the train cars contained hydrogen peroxide, prompting health concerns
The security measures imposed in Longueuil, Quebec, following a train derailment have been fully lifted after initial concerns about a potential chemical spill.
The City of Longueuil announced early this morning that all restrictions have been removed, including those affecting residents near the derailment site and along Highway 116.
"Residents of the affected area no longer need to stay indoors and can now move around safely outside," the city stated on its website.
The incident occurred shortly before 9 a.m. when eight train cars derailed at a Canadian National (CN) rail yard near the intersection of St-Georges and St-Louis streets in the LeMoyne neighborhood. Three CN employees were taken to the hospital as a precaution.
Officials from CN and the City of Longueuil confirmed that at least one of the derailed cars was carrying hydrogen peroxide, a chemical commonly used in industrial processes and household products. Hydrogen peroxide, while safe at low concentrations, can cause eye irritation, and industrial-strength exposure may result in severe skin and respiratory irritation or burns, according to Health Canada.
The exact cause of the derailment is still under investigation, and cleanup efforts are expected to continue throughout the day.
