TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The Johns Hopkins Children’s outpatient center will remain closed Friday after three employees were transported to a local hospital Thursday following a hazmat call, officials said.
A representative for the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Outpatient Care medical center, located at 12220 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, said the facility experienced several power issues on Wednesday. When employees arrived Thursday morning, they smelled an odor coming from the MRI room.
The employees immediately called the Hillsborough County Fire Department for assistance.
“Approximately 80 people were evacuated from the building as a precaution and screened for any symptoms, including patients and employees,” the JHU representative said. “Three employees were transported to a local hospital for respiratory concerns.”
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue later determined that 30 lithium-ion batteries, approximately 100 pounds each, swelled for an unknown reason posing “a threat of explosion, up to and including fire and a further release of toxic compounds.”
Several hours later, crews successfully removed the batteries from the building and now plan to place them in a “neutralizing agent.”
“Since the hazard has been removed from the building, we will use fans to ventilate the structure to safe levels,” HCFR said.
Clinic services were canceled for the remainder of Thursday as authorities continues their investigation.
