On February 11, 2025, Reggio Emilia witnessed an industrial fire at Via Due Canali 13, affecting the facilities of INALCA S.p.A., known for processing fresh meat, and Quanta Stock&Go Srl, engaged in food storage and logistics. Following the incident, local health authorities issued urgent cleanup ordinances due to identified concerns over hazardous materials, particularly debris containing asbestos.
The fire not only caused property damage but also led to contamination risks for surrounding areas. Local government and environmental protection agencies took immediate action, with the first ordinance mandicating the internal and adjacent space remediation for the affected buildings. Now, the urgency has escalated, prompting the issuance of a second ordinance focusing on the cleanup of outdoor areas.
Local health authorities have specified the necessity for both INALCA and Quanta Stock&Go to act within 48 hours of receiving the order. This includes addressing the cleanup of locations already identified as having asbestos fragments present, based on assessments conducted by the Regional Agency for Environmental Protection (Arpae) and the local health department.
This second ordinance requires the companies to not only proceed with remediation efforts but also manage the initial cleanup performed by the Reggio Emilia municipal authorities during the emergency’s early stages. Following additional reports from residents about asbestos debris, both companies must now clean public areas and private properties nearby, including balconies, yards, and window ledges.
Cleanups are also mandated for parts of the railway line adjacent to the industrial site if traces of asbestos-containing materials are detected. "The two companies must undertake activities aimed at cleaning the areas where asbestos fragments have been found," emphasized the local health department.
According to Arpae and AUSL evaluations, this decisive action was warranted to prevent potential dispersion of hazardous materials from the site following the fire. Such assessments indicated the presence of asbestos materials within a conoidal area extending from the INALCA plant, which was mapped out based on the risk of contamination.
With the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure, the insistence on swift remediation reflects the gravity of the situation. The health department has urged the companies to address these issues without delay to safeguard community health.
The rapid response by local authorities signifies the seriousness of environmental and public health protocols, especially following such distressing incidents. It showcases their commitment to ensuring swift action against potential hazards posed by industrial activities.
Experts warn of the long-term dangers of asbestos exposure, stressing the need for immediate and effective remediation as outlined by the recent ordinances. The prevailing focus remains on restoring safety to both the industrial site and surrounding areas quickly.
Public reaction has been mixed; residents are relieved by the prompt attention yet remain wary of the long-lasting effects of the contamination. Community members and advocates for public health continue to press for transparency and consistent monitoring as remediation efforts progress.
It is imperative for INALCA and Quanta Stock&Go to comply with these cleanup orders to mitigate risks and demonstrate responsibility toward environmental safety. Their actions will be closely monitored by local authorities as well as affected residents eager to see timely recovery and restoration of their neighborhood.
The fire incident remains under investigation, with authorities examining the causes and potential lapses leading to this disruption. The importance of strict compliance with safety regulations within industrial sectors has never been clearer, and this scenario serves as a potent reminder of the stakes involved.