RCMP continue to investigate how a quantity of white powder found its way into a package of equipment delivered to a local manufacturing business.

An RCMP HAZMAT team arrived on the scene at 9 p.m. from Edmonton Monday, examined the powder and determined it to be non life-threatening. Its precise properties are being evaluated. Initially it is described to be an irritant that is non-toxic, non-flammable, and not vaporous.

All quarantined employees on scene have been released. The Grande Prairie Fire Department is co-ordinating cleanup efforts.

The City of Grande Prairie Emergency Operations Centre was activated at 5 p.m. at the request of the County of Grande Prairie when the white powder was discovered.

The material was found in a package containing equipment sent to the company several days ago. It was opened this afternoon.

RCMP, City of Grande Prairie Fire Department and EMS staff attended at Shanco Camp Services, located at 10340-140^th Avenue, just north of the City in the County, where six employees came into contact with the powder.

These employees were isolated and decontaminated when a shower unit arrived on the scene. Another 100 employees were also kept within the company facility until the nature of the substance was assessed.

City buses were dispatched to the site to keep affected employees warm and separated from the other staff. Arrangements to ensure their comfort, such as food and contact with families, were made.