Investigators say that portions of Poland Avenue and the Himrod Expressway will remain closed through Tuesday morning because of a chlorine leak at the waste water treatment plant. 

Poland Avenue was shut down from Gibson street to Powers Way, as well as the Himrod Avenue Expressway from Albert Street to Williamson after the leak was detected around 10 a.m. Monday. Both roads are expected to remain closed until 8 a.m. Tuesday.

Hazmat crews entered the building just before 11:30 p.m. to contain the leak in a 2,000 gallon tank. 

The plant was evacuated as well as buildings within a 1,000 yard radius, including a scrap yard and Exal on Performance Place.

Although the leak has been contained, hazmat officials are concerned that the liquid chlorine could vaporize and spread to the air around the plant.

There are no reports of injuries.

The chlorine, which is used to treat water, is more concentrated than the chlorine found in household bleach.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, when chlorine gas comes into contact with moist tissues such as the eyes, throat, and lungs, an acid is produced that can damage these tissues.

More information about health risks posed by chlorine may be found here.