Chemistry lab draws hazmat and emergency services, hospitalizing 13

EDITOR’S NOTE — OCTOBER 24 8:11 p.m.

An early version of this article claimed the gaseous chemical solidified in the lungs of those who inhaled it. Further research shows that this is not the case.

All 13 students have now been released from the hospital.

The Payne Athletic Center was flooded with emergency services today following a chemistry lab which resulted in 13 people being exposed to a paint lacquer-adjacent material during a chemistry lab. Following the lab, some of the students exposed went to swim practice where their symptoms escalated. 

“There were no issues found in the lab and it has been cleared to reopen for class,” John Hermes, Chief Information and Campus Operations Officer, said. “There were 12 students and one teacher assistant who are all in stable condition at the hospital. We are actively monitoring the situation.”

The chemical, called cyclohexanone, is an oil alcohol that is colorless and emits a strong acetone odor, often used in formulating industrial-grade solvents. 

A student who was in a lab nearby explained how the chemical functions. 

“The organic chemistry lab got contaminated by a chemical that accidentally became a gas, and it solidifies at room temperature. The swimmers were the first to feel the effects because they had practice right after.”

The CDC’s Pocket Guide to Hazardous Material says exposure to this material can cause “irritation to eyes, skin, mucous membrane; headache; narcosis, coma; dermatitis.”

Three of the exposed individuals reported shortness of breath; they were treated on the scene. All 13 individuals in the lab at the time were advised to go to the hospital for further medical investigation to ensure no adverse effects remained. 

Neil Arter, Dean of Students, released a statement about the incident, also reassuring that further investigation into safety would take place to ensure this incident remains isolated. 

“We followed protocol, notified the students’ families, and can report that all students are in stable condition. The safety and health of our students, staff, and faculty remain top priorities.”