Cleanup continues after sulfuric acid leak at Kemi plant

Work to neutralize a sulfuric acid spill at Nevel Oy’s facility in Kemi’s Veitsiluoto area has continued overnight, with lime used to treat water in the affected basins, Yle reports.

Measurements show the water’s pH level has improved since Friday, according to Hanna Viita, the company’s communications and responsibility director.

A preliminary visual assessment of potential environmental damage is underway today. The leak, detected Friday, involved 10,000 liters of sulfuric acid. Acidic water has also entered the sea via drainage systems and pipelines.

Viita said efforts are being made with local actors to flush the basins of any substances requiring further action. While the flow of acidic water into the sea has been minimized, authorities are reviewing whether to fully block it during the day.

Safety measures and monitoring continue, with pH levels checked three times daily. A hazard warning issued by rescue services for the water area between Kemi’s Petsamontie and Kaartotie roads remains in effect until pH levels meet environmental permit standards.