Investigation Launched by Environment Agency Following Toxic Chemical Spill in Canal

The Environment Agency has initiated an investigation into a company following the declaration of a major incident caused by a toxic spill in a canal in the West Midlands.

The spill occurred early Monday morning in the Walsall canal area, prompting the local council to advise the public to steer clear of affected sections of the waterway and towpaths.

The responsible company, Anochrome Ltd., which specializes in surface coatings and plating such as nickel plating, has been identified by authorities as the culprit behind the spill.

An Environment Agency spokesperson mentioned that close collaboration with Walsall Council and other agencies, including the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), is underway to address the incident and evaluate the damage.

“We are currently investigating the company believed to be responsible for this incident. Pollution of this magnitude is unacceptable, and the consequences for wildlife and the environment can be dire. If any breaches of regulations are discovered, we will take decisive enforcement actions,” the spokesperson emphasized.

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“We have implemented a thorough sampling and testing plan and urge the public to comply with safety directives provided by the local council,” the spokesperson added.

Sodium cyanide can dissolve in water, and due to its severe health implications, officials have cautioned about the potential health risks if individuals or their pets come into direct contact with water from the affected area, encouraging those directly exposed and feeling unwell to seek medical advice through 111 or 999 in emergencies.

The public has been advised to avoid the canal areas and towpaths from the Walsall lock flight to the lock flights at Rushall, Ryders Green, and Perry Barr.

Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Garry Perry, expressed, “The safety of our residents is paramount. I understand their concerns and hope for a speedy resolution to this incident. We are collaborating closely with our partners to manage this major incident. For your safety, please avoid this part of the canal and its towpaths.”

‘Disgraceful’

Anochrome confirmed in a statement that a chemical incident occurred on Monday morning, leading to some chemicals entering a canal in Walsall.

The company immediately informed the Environment Agency and Severn Trent Water following the incident and is currently on-site working with authorities to minimize and contain the spill.

The statement further stated, “Since learning about the incident, we have cooperated fully with the attending authorities and agencies, providing access to our in-house laboratory testing facilities.

“Our top priority is the safety of our community and the environment. We are committed to mitigating the impact of this incident and will provide updates as they become available.”

Cyanide salts can be absorbed through the skin, potentially causing symptoms like headache, nausea, drowsiness, and changes in heart rate. The UKHSA also notes that exposure can lead to vomiting, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.

Jonathan Paul, a senior lecturer in earth sciences at Royal Holloway University of London, expressed concern over spills like this, describing them as a significant threat to ecosystems.

Paul explained, “The primary risk to individuals would be encountering the contaminated canal water, possibly through physical contact.”

“Ingestion of water containing high concentrations of sodium cyanide can result in typical poisoning symptoms, including nausea, weakness, pain, and potentially loss of consciousness, depending on the amount ingested and the chemical concentration,” he added.

PA Media contributed to this report.