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CANTON TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW) – Emergency crews responded to the scene of a chemical release in Stark County Monday.

According to officials, the incident took place just before 8 a.m. Monday at US Ecology, 2050 Central Avenue SE.

According to Scott Johnson with Canton Township Fire, 5 people were affected by the chemicals. All 5 were taken to the hospital. 1 of them is in critical condition. The other 4 are expected to be treated and released.

Johnson told FOX 8 the chemical released was hydrogen sulfide. The cause of the release is still under investigation.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, exposure to hydrogen sulfide can cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory system.  It can also cause apnea, coma, convulsions, dizziness, headache and an upset stomach.

Canton Township Fire says there were no concerns about the chemical spreading to spreading to neighboring areas.

According to the company’s website, US Ecology utilizes “an extensive fleet of specialized equipment and materials to securely transport, treat or dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous materials generated from facility and equipment cleaning, turnaround and shutdown work, decontamination and more.”

The company released a statement to FOX 8 regarding the incident:

“We are aware of an incident at our facility in Canton, Ohio and are cooperating with authorities as they investigate. The occurrence poses no threat to the health or safety of the public,” US Ecology said. “Safety is our top priority and we will continue to provide updated information as it becomes available.”

The Canton Township Fire Department and Stark County Hazmat Team responded to the scene.

Due to the company’s location, no other businesses or areas have been evacuated.