On Wednesday morning Milligan University identified a carbon monoxide leak in Steve Lacy Fieldhouse. The building was evacuated upon discovery of the leak that was believed to begin in the lower level of the fieldhouse. Students who were experiencing the following symptoms were incentivised to be evaluated as soon as possible: lightheadedness, severe headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
According to an email from President Waers, “approximately 300 students and staff may have been exposed and were evaluated at various medical facilities over the past day.”And as of Thursday morning fewer than 20 students and staff remain under observation and care at Ballad Health facilities.
Carter County and Washington County EMS were on campus assisting with transportation for anyone who needed to be evaluated. Students could go to the Wellness Center immediately for transportation to the hospital.
Atmos Energy confirmed that carbon monoxide levels in the facility returned to normal on Wednesday morning. On Thursday morning, February 5, the Elizabethton Fire Department conducted an onsite inspection and cleared the building for occupancy.
Atmos Energy shared with the Stampede, “On Wednesday, Feb. 4, Milligan University staff notified Atmos Energy of a suspected leak at 800 Fife Drive and technicians immediately responded to investigate. Their work quickly determined the source of carbon monoxide (CO) gas was associated with two heating units in the building which are unrelated to Atmos Energy’s natural gas distribution system. Natural gas service was temporarily suspended to the heating units until repairs are made by University contractors.”
Milligan will partner with a third-party firm to investigate why the carbon monoxide detectors did not alarm and to review safety systems and inspection protocols.
Steve Lacy Fieldhouse was equipped with multiple carbon monoxide detectors that did not alarm and have since been replaced along with additional carbon monoxide detectors. And all detectors across campus have been inspected to ensure proper operation.
The source of the carbon monoxide leak has been stopped, and Atmos Energy has confirmed that carbon monoxide levels in the Fieldhouse returned to normal on Wednesday morning, February 4.
On Thursday morning, February 5, the Elizabethton Fire Department was onsite, inspected the building and cleared it for occupancy.
The Milligan community will be notified once the building reopens.
Ballad Health has provided the phone number for their patient experience team. They are prepared to answer any questions you have regarding treatment or protocols. The number is 423-431-6111.
The Stampede will continue to cover this as more information comes out. Please feel free to share your experiences related to this situation to gejones@my.milligan.edu.
Photo: Steve Lacy Fieldhouse on February 4th (Photo Credit: Danielle Roberts)
