6 More Hanford Workers Evaluated for Vapor Exposure

RICHLAND, Wash. (AP)  Officials say six more Hanford Nuclear Reservation workers have been evaluated for chemical vapor exposure, bringing the total number to 26.

The Tri-City Herald reports three people working Monday reported smelling suspicious odors and three others requested medical evaluations because of odors last week.

Nineteen workers reported symptoms from headaches to shortness of breath that could indicate exposure to chemical vapors from waste in underground tanks. Seven have been checked as a precaution.

All 26 have been cleared to return to work.

Workers are concerned that vapor exposure could cause long-term health problems.

Last month, officials said a tank had leaked several thousand gallons of radioactive waste from its primary tank. The odors are suspected to have come from the transfer of that waste.

Transfer work has stopped while new equipment is installed.