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Workers affected by fumes generated in mystery chemical reaction on site

The Aberdeen Press and Journal has reported that work stopped on construction of a new school in Aberdeen after construction workers inhaled fumes.

One workman collapsed after inhaling the fumes and two of his colleagues took themselves to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary (ARI) reporting sore throats, nausea, vomiting and headaches.

It is understood the “concentration of a solution the construction workers were preparing was too high, causing the gas”

A Fire Service spokesperson said:

“We were called to a hazmat (hazardous materials) incident. One person had collapsed and several people were complaining of headaches. We cordoned off the area and made sure it was safe.”

NHS Grampian spokesman said:

“Two male patients presented at accident and emergency in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary yesterday complaining of a burning sensation in the throat, streaming eyes, nausea, vomiting and headache. They had been exposed to an unknown chemical.

In line with emergency procedures, the department was closed to all but emergency admissions as a precaution.  It was subsequently confirmed that the chemicals were of low toxicity. Both patients made a full recovery and have been discharged home.

A spokeswoman for HSE said it was making initial inquiries into the incident.

This article was posted on 28th September 2010 in ALL LATEST NEWS, INQUESTS, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH.
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