Mercury spill temporarily closes parts of Cincinnati’s VA hospital

A mercury spill Nov. 1 closed portions of Cincinnati VA Medical Center for nearly a week, according to Cincinnati.com.

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The mercury leaked from an old drain pipe that was being removed from an active construction area.  The pipe was not connected to water or drainage systems in the medical center, according to the report.

The VA Medical Center closed off the areas near the spill for testing and hallways around the incident were also closed off.  Hospital officials said some of the sections have been deemed safe and will reopen today. 

The medical center is working with the Ohio EPA and Cincinnati Health Department to devise a cleanup strategy.

VA officials said there is minimal risk to patients, employees and visitors.

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