Pepper spray discharge prompts hazardous materials response at Morris County recycling facility
MINE HILL TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — A hazardous materials response was launched Tuesday morning after an unknown airborne irritant was reported inside a recycling facility in Mine Hill Township, authorities said.
According to the Wharton Police Department, officers responded at approximately 8 a.m. to the facility on Iron Mountain Road after employees evacuated the building upon detecting the irritant.
The Wharton Police Department was joined at the scene by the Picatinny Arsenal Hazardous Materials Team, Morris County Hazardous Materials Unit, Morris County Office of Emergency Management, Mine Hill Fire Department, Mine Hill Fire Official, Mine Hill Deputy Office of Emergency Management Coordinator and the Rockaway Borough Fire Department.
Following an investigation, responders determined the source of the irritant was an oleoresin capsicum (pepper spray) canister that inadvertently discharged while recyclable materials were being processed.
Officials said the building was ventilated, and the scene was declared safe.
Authorities said there is no ongoing threat to the public. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has been notified, and the incident has been concluded.
