PotashCorp-Aurora is actively investigating two recent leaks of anhydrous ammonia.

According to the United States Coast Guard National Response Center, the leaks occurred on May 31 and June 7. During the May 31 leak, two pounds of the substance was released; on June 7, 179.4 pounds were release into the air.

While both releases are still under investigation, equipment malfunctions are possible causes, said PotashCorp-Aurora Manager of Public Affairs Ray McKeithan.

“Our Emergency Response Team (ERT) is equipped and trained to control hazardous material releases. During the June 7 incident, our team reacted quickly and efficiently to mitigate potential harm and limit environmental exposure. The minor release on May 31 did not require ERT activation,” McKeithan wrote in an email.

He went on to state that because the June 7 release was quickly suppressed by the ERT and a deluge water system, and limited to a small area onsite, Aurora residents were not at risk from any effects of the ammonia release. The deluge water system is activated when ammonia is detected in the atmosphere, and sprays water to absorb the airborne ammonia.

The May 31 release did not require reporting to the National Response Center, which is the federal point of contact for all hazardous substances releases and oil spills.

“In an abundance of caution, we initially reported the leak to ensure compliance with NRC reporting guidelines,” McKeithan said.

Symptoms of anhydrous ammonia exposure include burning of the eyes, nose and throat after breathing even small amounts.

McKeithan said no one was harmed in either incident and there were no offsite impacts.