Stolen valve causes Mercaptan leak in Corradino

Enemalta this afternoon sealed a container which leaked Mercaptan at its facility in Corradino after a valve was stolen.

Mercaptan is added to gas cylinders because of its distinctive smell to help users detect any leaks since Liquid Petroleum Gas is highly combustible but is odorless.

The corporation explained that at about 2 p.m. it started receiving reports of a smell of Mercaptan in the area around Corradino.

Personnel took immediate action and sealed a leaking container which was being stored in Enemalta's premises. A subsequent investigation determined that the leak was due to a stolen valve.

By 4.30 p.m. the situation was completely under control.

At no point in time were the residents of surrounding area in any danger, the corporation said.There never was any gas lead and none of its personnel were injured.

Enemalta thanked its workers and the Civil Protection Department for their assistance. It also apologised to residents of the area for the inconvenience caused by the smell of mercaptan.

A police report was lodged at Paola police station.