Routine is changed in affected area after gas leak at company in the Industrial District Manaus faced a chemical emergency after the leak of styrene monomer gas at the company Innova, in the Industrial District, last Wednesday (15). The incident was caused by abnormal overheating in one of the storage tanks, resulting in the release of toxic vapors into the atmosphere. In response to what happened, the city hall declared a state of alert and imposed a fine of R$4.5 million on the company responsible. Teams from the Fire Department and health agencies continue to monitor the situation to ensure the safety of the affected population. ? Join the g1 AM channel on WhatsApp See below what is known about the case: What caused the gas leak in the Industrial District? What is styrene? What are the main symptoms of styrene inhalation? How many people were affected and sought medical attention? What services and activities were suspended in Manaus? What is the guidance for those who live or work near the location? What was the punishment applied to the company Innova? What is the current situation in the isolated area? 1. What caused the gas leak in the Industrial District? The leak occurred after the styrene monomer suffered an abnormal increase in temperature inside a storage tank. The main hypothesis is a spontaneous chemical reaction that generated high pressure, forcing the safety valves to open. There was no record of fire or explosion, but vapors were released intensely into the atmosphere. 2. What is styrene? Styrene monomer, a substance that leaked from the company's tank, is a toxic chemical used in the manufacture of plastics, synthetic rubbers and expanded polystyrene (styrofoam). The product is originally liquid, but when it becomes gas, it tends to spread more easily and can reach places far from the leak point. 3. What are the main symptoms of styrene inhalation? Exposure to styrene through inhalation causes immediate irritation to the eyes, nose and throat. Affected patients have also reported symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and shortness of breath. In cases of exposure to high concentrations, episodes of fainting, mental confusion and loss of consciousness may occur. Videos show moment of styrene gas leak in the Industrial District in Manaus Styrene gas leak is recorded in a factory in the Industrial District of Manaus 4. How many people were affected and sought medical attention? By the end of Thursday afternoon (16), the public health network recorded 149 consultations related to the incident. Of this total, 140 patients were discharged after evaluation and nine remained hospitalized for monitoring. The death of a 67-year-old man is under investigation by the Civil Police, although there is no confirmed direct link. 5. What services and activities were suspended in Manaus? Nineteen schools suspended classes for safety reasons, and the PAC Studio 5 station stopped serving the public. Additionally, 18 companies in the Industrial District evacuated their buildings and released employees due to the strong odor and potential risks. The mayor advised avoiding unnecessary circulation within a 30-kilometer radius of the area. GIF Videos show the moment of a styrene gas leak in the Industrial District in Manaus Reproduction 6. What is the guidance for those who live or work near the site? Civil Defense recommends keeping environments open and well ventilated to encourage air circulation. Appliances that capture external air, such as air conditioning systems, must be turned off immediately. Experts recommend the use of P2 or N95 masks for respiratory protection and seeking immediate medical help if symptoms of poisoning appear. 7. What was the punishment applied to the company Innova? Manaus City Hall fined Innova R$4.5 million due to the toxic leak and air pollution above safe limits. The company has 20 days to present contingency plans, safety reports and drainage information. The Amazonas Public Ministry also opened an investigation to determine environmental damage and criminal liability. 8. What is the current situation in the isolated area? The Fire Department maintains a 300-meter insulation around the factory and works to continuously cool the tanks. Although the intensity has decreased, there is still residual release of chemical vapors during the temperature control process. The municipal Crisis Office continues to monitor air, water and soil quality. INFOGRAPHIC - Gas leak leaves an isolated area in Manaus. g1 Gas leak in Manaus firefighters continue cooling tanks 14 hours after the incident William Duarte/Rede Amazônica