Birmingham, Ala.-based UAB Hospital called in a hazmat team Aug. 9 after helicopter crew members reacted to an unknown substance on a patient they were transporting to the hospital, according to AL.com.
The crew "experienced a reaction" to an unknown substance on the patient, who had been in an explosion, Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service Capt. Harold Watson told the publication. The hospital did not describe the reactions other than to say the crew complained of "minor irritations," according to AL.com.
Hospital officials confirmed a propane tank was involved in the blast but did not know where it occurred.
A hazmat team performed an open-air monitoring of chemicals and gases in the air, but did not identify any abnormal substances, according to Mr. Watson.
UAB spokesperson Tyler Greer said the patient was decontaminated at the hospital.
"This occurred after the crew complained of minor irritations upon arrival," he said in a statement cited by AL.com. "Out of an abundance of caution, UAB asked the Birmingham fire department to inspect the aircraft and decontaminate it if necessary. No medical personnel were treated."
More articles on clinical leadership and infection control:
How Chicago hospitals handled most violent weekend since 2016
Appearance-altering apps are driving more young patients to seek plastic surgery, researchers say
Patient's family outraged after Atlanta hospital waited hours to tell them he was missing