Reinhart Foods evacuated, no cause found

Clearview Fire and Emergency Services were dispatched to Reinhart Foods in Stayner at 10 a.m. Wednesday, when 15-20 workers reported experiencing a respiratory irritation, according to Fire Chief Scott Davison.

Clearview firefighters from Stayner, Nottawa and Creemore responded to begin patient assessment and investigate the cause. Barrie Fire Service Hazardous Materials Team was also dispatched to assist.

Once they were cleared by paramedics, staff were shuttled to the Stayner Community Centre to take shelter from the hot weather. A few proceeded to hospital for further assessment.

Davison said no chemical spills or residue were found in the building and air levels were monitored and deemed safe. There was never any threat to the public.

He thanks Simcoe County paramedic services, Barrie Fire and Emergency Service, Clearview firefighters and the Reinhart staff for working together to resolve this incident.

Reinhart Foods said in a community message, “Although no cause or irritant was found, Reinhart will continue to do a thorough review of any potential impacts to our internal air quality. The well being of our employees and the community are our top priority. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Clearview and Barrie emergency services, both fire and paramedic, for their outstanding support and thorough review.”