25 treated after chemical spill in Polokwane

POLOKWANE – 25 people  were treated after an chemical spill at a company in Staal Street on Tuesday morning.

Several people reported difficulties in breathing and were moved to an evacuation point on the premises of Amarel Brands.

According to ER24 spokesperson Russel Meiring, on arrival the paramedics immediately began assessment and found 25 people had inhaled the toxic fumes. “The patients were treated for their injuries and two were taken to a nearby hospital for further treatment.”

“It is understood that a container of Formaldehyde had apparently leaked during the evening, causing the incident.”

Hazardous Material Teams as well as fire services are on the scene to contain the incident as for further investigation concluded Meiring.

Vernon Padayachee, owner of  Amarel Brands, confirms that there was a chemical spill on the premises. “The correct procedures were followed, but the business will remain closed for the rest of the day.”