Hazmat response to suspicious powder found in building behind Barton Hospital

5:25 p.m. Update: The El Dorado County HazMat Emergency Response team has confirmed that the powder substance found in a package delivered to Barton's supply chain this morning is not hazardous.

The sequestered employees have been released and the back entrance of the hospital is now accessible to the public.

"Barton is thankful for the local agencies who collaborated with us to ensure the safety of staff and patients," said Mindi Befu, Barton's Director of Marketing, Public Relations & Patient Experience.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The El Dorado County Hazardous Material Emergency Response team and South Lake Tahoe Police Department (SLTPD) are at Barton Hospital after a powdery substance was found in a building behind the hospital early this afternoon.

An employee was opening a package that contained the unknown substance and as a precautionary measure, eight employees in the area were sequestered.

These employees are not exhibiting any symptoms.

"At this time, we do not believe there is additional exposure, but are taking all necessary precautions until the El Dorado County HazMat team clears the scene," said Barton Health's Public Relations & Marketing Director Mindi Befu.

Befu said in accordance with standard protocol, the appropriate local agencies were contacted.

No patients were affected, and patient care has not been disrupted.

SLTPD recommended Barton temporarily close the back of the hospital entrance and access road. All employees and patients will use the front entrance until the scene is cleared.

Updates will be shared as new information is available.