SIX people were treated by paramedics after a chemical spill at a Wisbech packaging plant today.
Fire crews were called at 11.55am after about 20 litres of solvent and an unknown quantity of water-based inks leaked from a 200-litre drum inside Paragon Labels, Cromwell Road, Wisbech.
The building has been evacuated and a 100-metre cordon set up.
Two fire crews from Wisbech, one from St Neots and the fire service’s hazardous materials crew from St Neots, as well as police and ambulance services, are at the scene.
A fire service spokesman said: “We received reports of a smoking drum container containing chemicals and informed the caller to evacuate building, which they did.
“About 20 litres of solvent and an unknown quantity of water based inks were within a drum which has been taken outside the building.
“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using thermal imaging cameras to monitor the temperature of the drums.
“Fire officers at the scene are working with experts and management at the site to decide the best way to neutralise and dispose of the chemicals.”
“There is no threat to public safety at this time.”
Gary Sanderson, spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service Trust, said six people are being treated by ambulance crews and the trust’s hazardous area response team after they became unwell.
he said: “All six casualties are being treated for breathing problems after it is believed they inhaled vapours escaping from a drum.
“Following further assessments, all six will not be taken to hospital.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here