Truck holding six chemical barrels catches fire

Saskatoon fire crews were called Saturday morning after a truck carrying six barrels of isocyanate, a chemical used in foam insulation, caught fire. (Saskatoon Fire Department)

Fire and hazmat teams were called to Saskatoon’s North Industrial area Saturday morning after a truck holding six chemical barrels caught fire.

Crews responded to the blaze in the 800 block of 43rd Street East just after 9:30 a.m. A vehicle containing barrels of isocyanate, a chemical used to make foam insulation, was on fire.

Firefighters were able to control the fire within seven minutes and before any product sparked or escaped the barrels.

One barrel had expanded due to the heat and crews remained on scene using a thermal camera to monitor the product. Water was used to lower the product’s temperature.

A hazmat team was on standby.

Battalion chief David Nahachewsky said isocyanate can cause severe inhalation problems.

The cause of the fire was deemed accidental, according to Nahachewsky, but crews will continue to investigate on Monday.

Damage was estimated at over $50,000.