Early June Release of Uranium Hexafluoride (UF6) at Honeywell’s Metropolis Works Facility – Updated: 6.13.23 Discussion with Massac County Sheriff Chad Kaylor – 6.21.23 Discussion with Massac EMA Brian Horn

(WMOK – Metropolis, IL) On Monday morning at approximately 9:08 a.m. CT, there was a release of uranium hexafluoride (UF6) at Honeywell’s Metropolis Works facility in Metropolis, IL.

Mike Hockey, Director of Communications for Honeywell tells WMOK that their monitoring system did not detect any release outside of the Honeywell fence line. The release was contained to the site and a shelter in place was issued.

Hockey said that employees were evaluated on site for medical conditions and were approved to return to work. There were no significant injuries.

The shelter in place was lifted and an all clear was issued at 11:55 a.m. CT. There was no threat to the local community.

Hockey said, “The safety and well-being of our employees and the community is our top priority. Honeywell is working with local authorities and has begun an investigation to determine the root cause of the incident.”

When Massac County Sheriff Chad Kaylor joined us for Coffee Break today we asked him to discuss protocols in place should there be a serious release event at Honeywell.  Hear our discussion below:

Hear these WMOK Coffee Breaks in their Entirety:

Massac County Sheriff Chad Kaylor Full WMOK Coffee Break FULL 6.13.23

Massac EMA Director Brian Horn and Southernmost Illinois Emergency Radio Association President Jay Smock – WMOK Full Coffee Break – 6.20.23