On the morning of November 10, residents near a large semiconductor packaging and testing companies, ASE Semiconductor's Taoyuan plant in Zhongli District reported dense white smoke emitting from the facility, raising concerns over a possible gas leak. The Taoyuan City Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) promptly dispatched inspectors to investigate, coordinating with ASE staff on-site.
According to ASE, a power outage at 7 a.m. disrupted nitrogen production equipment, causing liquid nitrogen to leak and combine with air, producing a visible white vapor. Inspectors confirmed there was no noticeable odor at the site and reassured the public that liquid nitrogen, though a chemical, is non-toxic, odorless, and non-flammable, posing minimal risk in open-air settings.
Given the plant's proximity to residential areas, ASE staff implemented temporary traffic controls to ensure public safety. EPB officials advised that while nitrogen is not a regulated hazardous substance, high concentrations in confined spaces can pose health risks. They urged ASE to strengthen safety measures to prevent similar incidents.
By noon, ASE had resolved the equipment issue, and EPB officials emphasized the importance of self-management to avoid future occurrences. While this incident caused no environmental damage, it highlighted the need for rigorous safety protocols to reassure local communities.
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