November 5, 2026

The Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) is working with local response teams after a mercury spill at a factory in Hastings, MI. The spill involved a large broken thermometer and was reported to BEDHD on November 3.

The spill has been contained, and a HAZMAT team has checked the building. Testing found that mercury vapor levels in the rest of the building were below workplace safety limits. Based on these results, the building is safe for normal operations, except for the area where the spill happened. That area will remain closed while cleanup continues. There is no ongoing threat to the public in Hastings from this incident.

The factory was closed the night of November 3 as a safety measure while response teams checked for mercury vapor in other parts of the building. This helped make sure the rest of the building was safe before employees returned to work.

Factory employees known to have been exposed to mercury were evaluated by occupational health professionals. Employees who were inside the building when the factory closed were also checked for mercury on their clothing and bodies. Factory employees who have questions or concerns about their health related to this incident should contact their supervisor or Human Resources (HR).

Mercury is harmful when it spills because it can release vapor into the air. Breathing in mercury vapor can be dangerous, especially indoors. You cannot always see or smell it. Symptoms of exposure may include headache, cough, sore throat, trouble breathing, nausea, shaking, irritability or trouble focusing. Anyone who has symptoms after possible mercury exposure should contact their health care provider.

BEDHD appreciates the work of local response partners who helped contain the spill, assess the building and protect the health and safety of workers and the community.

For questions or more information, contact the Barry-Eaton District Health Department at 269-945-9516 or visit www.barryeatonhealth.org.