Hazardous Materials Unit Called To Scene

Merseyside Fire and Rescue have revealed that 21 people were hospitalised following a chemical spill at the Royal Seaforth Container Base in Sefton on Monday (February 6th).

The service’s specialist Hazardous Materials Units were called out on the afternoon to the site, where they used sand to contain and absorb the chemicals involved.

All of those who inhaled fumes were taken to the Aintree University Hospital in Liverpool, where they were treated for both nausea and headaches. Everyone involved has since been discharged.

No information has been released regarding the chemicals involved in the spill.

Irwin Mitchell’s team of workplace injury and illness specialists act for those who have been hurt as a result of safety failings in relation to the handling of hazardous substances and materials.

David Urpeth, a Partner at the national law firm with expertise in the area, said: “While it is welcome news to hear that all of those affected by this incident have been discharged from hospital, there are clearly serious questions which need to be answered over how this incident came to occur.

“We represent many people who have suffered life-changing injuries or serious industrial illness after coming into contact with hazardous materials and it is vital that the safety guidelines followed in this case are carefully examined.

“Health and safety must always be a priority in the workplace and it is vital that, when problems do arise, a full investigation is held to determine how the problems occurred and what can be done to prevent them from being repeated in the future.”