Hamilton County Health Department Evacuated Due to Suspicious Odor and Chemical Exposure

On Thursday morning, the Hamilton County Health Department was evacuated after a “suspicious odor” prompted patients and employees to report feeling sick, dizzy, and lightheaded. The incident occurred around 9:45 am and led to the evacuation of the building with the presence of the Chattanooga Police Department and Hamilton County Emergency Management.

Five people were transported to the hospital due to exposure to a leak in the air conditioning refrigerant. The symptoms of mild exposure to the refrigerant include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and more. The fire department confirmed that the entire building has been checked and deemed safe.

East 3rd Street is currently closed between Palmetto Street and Hampton Street as emergency responders continue to address the situation. Local news crews on the scene observed health department staff beginning to return to the building, but it remains unclear if adjacent buildings were also evacuated as a precaution.