Hazmat Container Secured, Identified as Hydrogen Peroxide

Hazmat truck, file image by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

A hazardous material spill in Kula sent vapors into the air and forced the closure of a portion of road for nearly six-and-a-half hours on Tuesday before being contained at around 9 p.m. last night.

Authorities have since identified the contents of the 30-gallon barrel as hydrogen peroxide 35%, through labeling on the container and samples taken at the scene, said Maui Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga.

The incident was reported at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 27, at the corner of Kula Highway and Kamehameiki Road.

When crews from Engine 13 out of Kula and Hazmat units from Kahului responded to the scene, personnel observed the container emitting vapors, and set up a 300-foot exclusion zone around the perimeter, said FS Chief Mainaga.

Police closed Kula Highway between True Value Kula Hardware & Nursery and the Kula Post Office from 2:45 to around 7 p.m.; and a portion of Kamehameiki Road from 2:45 to 9 p.m. During the closure, authorities say Maui police assisted with traffic control and advising residents of the possible danger associated with the unknown chemical.

FS Chief Mainaga said some people evacuated the area, but no count was given how many.

The container was secured and scheduled to be picked up by a hazardous material disposal company, said FS Chief Mainaga.