Three Hospitalized In Springfield Hospital Haz Mat Incident

Three employees of Springfield Hospital were injured Friday, November 12, when they were exposed to high levels of pesticide being released inside an enclosed greenhouse.

The three employees, two security personnel and a maintenance worker, were responding to the reported hazardous materials incident at 12:40 pm when they walked inside the greenhouse. Arriving EMS crews found the three suffering from light headedness, nausea and shortness of breath. The three were taken to Carroll Hospital Center by medic units from Sykesville, Gamber and Winfield.

Sykesville firefighters, assisted by crews from West Friendship and the Carroll County Haz Mat Team, used self contained breathing apparatus to enter the greenhouse and locate the pesticide fogging cans. Crews then used the greenhouse's ventilation system along with positive pressure fans to ventilate the structure.

The Baltimore County Fire Department's Hazardous Materials team also responded to the scene to provide guidance, and after the building was sufficiently ventilated, employees were allowed to return inside.

The injuries to the employees are not believed to be life threatening. Their names and conditions are not available.