Montague chemical incident: Four treated for toxic gas inhalation

by Staff Bona
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Four people were treated following a chemical incident at the Ecowize facility in Montague Gardens yesterday, Monday, the 12th of January.

This incident unfolded around 3:30 pm when residents of the Montague area reported smoke billowing from the premises. Swift action by Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services ensured the situation was managed effectively and efficiently.

Fire department spokesperson Jermaine Carelse noted that the first officer on scene identified the incident as chemical-related almost immediately. This identification prompted immediate evacuation of the building and the establishment of a safety perimeter, featuring a 300-metre containment zone to protect both personnel and the surrounding community.

Fortunately enough, the assessment indicated that the temperature of the container at the centre of the incident was stabilising, and as it cooled, the chemical reaction was expected to cease. In a reassuring update, Mr Carelse confirmed that the vapour cloud that had been visible around the facility had dissipated.

With ventilation measures successfully implemented, the area was eventually declared safe and returned to the owners of the Ecowize facility.

In response to yesterday’s incident, Ecowize issued a statement confirming that emergency services had responded promptly and were managing the situation. ‘We would like to thank all emergency responders for their swift and professional action on site,’ the company expressed, highlighting their commitment to safety.

Authorities are still actively managing the situation, which has led to road closures and the potential for evacuations as a precautionary measure. This incident is being treated as a high-priority emergency due to the immediate dangers of the nitric acid spill that poses a danger to both human health and the environment.

First published on Cape {town} etc

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Feature Image: Gettys