PUTNAM COUNTY, WV (WOWK) – An area of Putnam County that includes the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services among others is without sewer service after a chemical leak in April.

According to the Department of Environmental Protection, about 5,400 gallons of Mondur Mr-Light — a chemical used to manufacture polyurethane products, including rigid and flexible foams, floor coatings, adhesives, and sealants — spilled at Service Transport Company on Independence Avenue near Nitro. It happened on April 28.

Experts say people can experience symptoms including skin and eye irritation, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea if exposed to it.

Officials initially believed the leak to be contained after the DEP and a contractor responded. But two days later, the chemical was found to have spread in the sewer line.

The DEP says the spread caused a sewer blockage in the area and about 1,000 feet of sewer lines must be replaced.

A few buildings in the area, including Service Transport, REO Logistics, and the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services are all without sewer service. As a result, some buildings have installed portable toilets in their parking lots so employees can use the restroom.

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The Nitro Regional Wastewater Utility is leading an investigation and working to replace the lines. The spill happened outside of Nitro city limits, and the utility is considered a separate entity from the city.

A utility spokesperson says there is no current timetable for when the repairs will be complete, or how much it will cost.

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