BD employees decontaminating after hazmat incident

State, local and federal officials responded to a "hazmat incident" at the Becton Dickinson and Company facility in the afternoon Thursday, May 15, Norfolk Public Information Officer Jon Barbagalo said.

Photo by Riley Klein

BD employees decontaminating after hazmat incident

Developing

The BD facility in North Canaan is on lockdown May 15 due to a "hazmat incident," according to emergency responders on scene.

Norfolk Public Information Officer Jon Barbagalo said BD "received a suspicious package this morning" and "numerous state and local authorities" responded, including the FBI, CT DEEP, state police, area fire departments and ambulances.

BD, the largest manufacturer of medical devices in the United States, based in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, employs about 500 workers at its North Canaan facility.

BD released a statement saying, "We are working closely with law enforcement and emergency personnel to thoroughly investigate the situation, and we are following their protocols. Out of an abundance of caution, we have suspended operations until further notice."

"At this time, two individuals have been transported to a nearby hospital as a precaution," a release from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said. "Approximately 300 to 350 personnel at the facility are undergoing a decontamination process as a precautionary measure. DEEP has deployed a contractor to the site to manage the decontamination operation, including shower trailers and the safe collection for clothing for those exiting the facility."

About 300 people are going through a decontamination process after a hazardous material exposure at BD.Photo by Riley Klein

Employees inside were reportedly instructed to remove clothing and shower for decontamination protocol.

A delivery driver attempting to enter the grounds was turned away and told the facility could be closed for several days.

This a developing story, check back later for more updates.

A statement received at 4:40 p.m. from Connecticut State Police stated, "The scene and the investigation is still active, and there is no active threat to the public at this time."

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