The Institute of Military Environmental Chemistry under Vietnam’s Chemical Army has taken analytical samples and devised a plan to clean the area where a blaze burned down Rang Dong Light Source and Vacuum Flask Joint Stock Company or Rang Dong JSC last week, according to local media.
Staff of the Institute of Military Environmental Chemistry sample at the scene. Photo: Thuy Nhi
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After having the test results, a task group will come up with a solution to clear the mercury hazard for people’s safety.
According to the official, based on the analysis, the task group will work out a plan to collect and handle materials, chemicals as well as to conduct remediation in the burnt warehouse. The plan will be submitted to the authorities. After the plan is approved, they will send personnel and equipment to deal with the hazard and return the environment to absolute safety.
On August 28, the fire suddenly erupted violently in the factory compound of Rang Dong JSC. Firefighters rushed to the scene to put off the fire. However, the fire was huge and there were many flammable objects in the warehouse.
Following the fire, facing the danger of ambient poisoning around Rang Dong JSC, local authorities, the Hanoi People's Committee and other specialized agencies have implemented a spate of environmental monitoring measures and provided parameters to alert people.
At a press conference on September 4, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Vo Tuan Nhan said the air in front of and within the burned warehouse has a notable mercury presence, which is 10 to 30 times higher than World Health Organization's recommendable level.
The Department of Natural Resources and Environment has asked Rang Dong JSC to implement measures to detox the environment after the blaze. The business has applied measures to prevent waste water from being discharged into the city’s sewerage network as well as install water sprinkler system to reduce hazards of foul odor.
The health authority in Hanoi continued providing medical checkup for residents around the company’s premises.
