Hundreds of workers exposed to cleaning fumes at chemical plant in Richmond, 6 hospitalized

RICHMOND, Texas (KTRK) -- Hundreds of employees were evaluated after they were exposed to a chemical while working at a plant in Richmond.

On Thursday, the Fort Bend County Fire Marshal's Office received a call at about 5:49 p.m. regarding the exposure at the W.A. Parish Plant off of Smithers Lake Road.

About 106 patients were found to have had some level of exposure to a chemical that caused them to have scratchy throats and burning of the eyes, according to Fort Bend County Judge KP George.

Those exposed were evaluated, and six patients were taken to nearby hospitals with the most severe symptoms of dizziness and difficulty breathing. All personnel and patients have been accounted for and released, George said.

Officials said the employees were doing some type of work at the facility when the leak happened.

George shared that there were concerns the employees could've been exposed to ammonia, but an investigation found the chemical was a biodegradable cleaner and degreaser that was overly applied.

Officials said there is no threat to surrounding areas around the plant.

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