Caivano chemical leak triggers school closures and public warnings

A chemical leak at a PPG Industries paint manufacturing plant in the Asi Pascarola industrial zone has triggered an environmental emergency in Caivano, Italy. The incident, caused by a chemical reaction within a storage tank, released irritating vapors into the atmosphere, prompting local authorities to take immediate precautionary measures.

Mayor Antonio Angelino issued an urgent ordinance ordering the closure of all schools, the municipal cemetery, public parks, and playgrounds. Outdoor sports activities have been prohibited, and residents have been advised to wear FFP2 masks, keep windows closed, and turn off mechanical ventilation systems. Carabinieri and Vigili del Fuoco responded to the scene, securing the tank and seizing the industrial area for investigation.

The Asl di Caserta has conducted monitoring of the air quality and reported that the substances released are non-persistent and non-bioaccumulative. While the vapors caused respiratory irritation and a strong odor, health officials stated that no toxic substances were dispersed and no immediate health risks to people or animals were identified following the initial assessments. Monitoring of the area continues.