The army bomb disposal unit has carried out a controlled explosion on school lab supplies in Dublin.
Gardaí and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team were called to Stephen's Green in the capital just after 5am this morning.
The call came after stores of nitric acid became unsafe at a nearby school.
An army spokesperson said the operation was routine - adding that there are no safety concerns for pupils.
The acid is found in school science departments around the country. It deteriorates overtime and becomes unsafe if it crystallizes.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education said there are "clear policies in place which govern the use and disposal of chemicals."
Schools are required to dispose of waste without any danger to health or the environment.
When seeking to dispose of any dangerous chemicals, schools should:
- Consult the Health and Safety Authority (HSA)
- Consult a specialist EPA approved disposal firm
- Consult with the local authority or County Council
The bomb disposal unit carries out about 10 controlled explosions on school lab supplies every year.
