BALTIMORE, MD (April 18, 2007) – The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) issued a Corrective Order to the Frederick City Wastewater Treatment Plant in response to a release of 400 pounds of chlorine that resulted in the evacuation of workers and nearby residents. The facility attributed the release to operator error.

No injuries were reported and there is no risk to public health. The plant superintendent notified MDE on March 15, 2007. The Frederick City Wastewater Treatment Plant followed MDE hazmat notification requirements and reported the incident within two hours of release. No penalty has been assessed presently.

The Order, issued on April 11, requires the facility to submit a written plan to MDE’s Air and Radiation Management Administration for approval. The Frederick City Wastewater Treatment Plant has 30 days to submit a corrective action plan to MDE. The plan must provide preventive measures that will be implemented as standard operating procedures in the future.

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