KOTA KINABALU: Thirteen workers had to get medical treatment after an ammonia gas leak in the Sandakan district on Friday (Nov 10).
The workers of an ice-manufacturing factory at Mile 3, Sandakan, sustained various health complications after the gas leak at around 10am.
Sabah Fire and Rescue Department acting assistant director of operations Kenneth Wilfred said an ice-maker broke down, and ammonia gas was emitted from the machine.
“Thirteen of the workers were at the location at that time,” he said in a statement.
He said of the 13 people, three suffered from breathing problems and pain in their eyes, seven people felt pain in their eyes and on their skin, a man was reported to be in critical condition while two people sustained minor injuries.
“All were given preliminary treatment by medical officials on the scene before they were taken to the hospital for further medical assistance,” said Kenneth.
He said firemen were tasked to sanitise and clear the location of any spills, pollution and chemical hazards.
All other workers were instructed to leave the affected compound immediately and to go to a safe location, he said.
Kenneth said police on site had also instructed premises within a 100m radius of the spill to shut down their operations until all hazardous elements had been cleared.
“Operations ceased at 12.06pm and there were no other casualties involved,” he said.
