BERLIN, Connect. (WFSB/Gray News) – A science experiment at a Connecticut high school caused a gas leak that sent a teacher and a student to the hospital.

The reported incident occurred during a science experiment being conducted on the second floor of Berlin High School.

The experiment involved the use of nitric acid and copper coins in a closed-loop system designed to produce nitrogen dioxide, a naturally occurring gas, officials said.

However, a fault in the installation caused the tube to break and release gas into the air.

Nitrogen dioxide, in high concentrations, can irritate the respiratory system and cause symptoms such as dizziness, eye irritation and throat discomfort. In severe cases, it may cause loss of consciousness.

Upon detection of the malfunction, the school was immediately evacuated.

“No one really knew if it was a drill or not. We found out later that while we were outside, one of the gaseous things that shouldn’t have been drawn had been drawn and the gas was leaking,” said Berlin High School student Katarina Pauley.

The Berlin Fire Brigade responded to the scene and used mechanical ventilation to clear the remaining gas in the building.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection also responded to confirm the findings.

A student and a teacher were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment after complaining of dizziness and irritation in the eyes and throat. The other 14 students were evaluated at the scene.

The school notified the parents of those affected. Officials said the situation continues to be investigated.

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