Student injured in chemical explosion in Sisler

January 12, 2012

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — A University of Florida student was injured late Wednesday afternoon in a chemical explosion in Sisler Hall, Union Road.

At about 5:45 p.m, the University of Florida Police Department and Gainesville Fire Rescue responded to a report of an injured person and chemical explosion. Units assisted the student and secured the lab where the incident occurred. The student, whose name has not been released at this time, was transported to Shands at UF medical center for treatment and evaluation.

After the GFR Hazmat Unit cleared the lab, it was determined that the materials involved were chemicals, but the type and quantity had not been definitively determined. However, given the nature and toxicity of the potential chemicals involved and concern for public safety, Sisler Hall was evacuated and will remain closed until cleanup and decontamination of the facility is completed. This process will likely take at least an additional day to complete.

For more information, visit http://www.police.ufl.edu/.