June 12, 2018 2.37 pm This story is over 69 months old

Four in hospital after factory chemical leak

First aid and oxygen was given to four casualties
| File photo: Steve Smailes for Lincolnshire Reporter

A chemical leak at a factory in Holbeach left four people needing treatment at hospital.

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue received a call at 11am on Monday, June 12 about a mechanical failure which led to a chemical leak.

Emergency crews from Long Sutting, Spalding, Kirkton, Boston and Grantham all rushed to QV Foods in Holbeach Hurn, Spalding.

The crews entered the property at around noon and obtained a sample of the leaked chemical – which was later confirmed to be Sodium Metabisulphite.

When mixed with water, the chemical releases sulphur dioxide which can cause breathing difficulties in some people.

First aid and oxygen was administered to the four casualties, who were suffering from chemical inhalation, and were later handed over to ambulance crews to be taken to hospital.

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue stayed at the site to monitor the restart of the machine to make sure that there was no further danger.

A spokesperson released this statement: “Crews from Long Sutton, two from Spalding, Kirkton, Boston and a rescue support unit from Grantham attended. It was found to be a chemical leak due to mechanical failure during manufacture.

“Crews used 2 BA to enter the property and obtain a sample of the chemical. The chemical was tested by chemical suppliers and confirmed Sodium Metabisulphite.

“Crews administered first aid and Oxygen to four casualties suffering chemical inhalation, before being handed to ambulance crews and they were later taken to hospital.

“Lincs Fire and Rescue stayed on to monitor the restart of manufacture to make sure there was no further danger.”