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GARDEN GROVE, Calif. () — The first phase of the chemical cleanup began Monday at the GKN Aerospace facility where a chemical mishap forced thousands of people from their homes in Garden Grove and surrounding areas while crews worked to alleviate the threat of a toxic leak or explosion.
The process was supposed to start three weeks ago but it kept getting delayed because crews didn’t have the necessary resources.
Crews working Monday through Thursday will remove neutralized methyl methacrylate, also known as MMA, from two storage tanks at GKN Aerospace, 12122 Western Ave. in Garden Grove.
Methyl methacrylate is a toxic and highly flammable liquid used in the manufacture of acrylic plastics.
“The work will take place over several days in carefully managed phases, using specialized, temperature-controlled containers with multiple safety protocols.” authorities said.
The operation is being coordinated by a unified command that includes the Orange County Health Care Agency, the South Coast Air Quality Management District and GKN Aerospace. During the cleanup, people in the area may notice a fruity odor as teams begin to remove the chemicals from the storage tanks.
No evacuations are needed and officials say although the smell may be strong, concentrations of MMA are well below levels associated with health concerns.
“I think they’ve mitigated any, well, ‘known-unknowns,’ to make sure nothing happens like that,” said Stanton resident Brian Daniels. “I’m glad it’ll be gone. I’m glad they will be investigated. I hope they don’t find anything, but I think they probably will.”
The process is expected to take place through Thursday, July 2.
People will be able to monitor the air quality and track the cleanup effort online.
As the cleanup begins, a federal investigation is also underway. Earlier this month, the FBI and EPA raided the facility as they investigate if any federal laws were violated during the incident.
City News Service contributed to this report.
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