Workers injured in chemical spillage

Wednesday 11 January 2012

MORE than 20 people were taken to hospital following a chemical spill at a warehouse in Livingston.

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The incident happened at the two-storey Palletways site in MacIntosh Road just after 8am yesterday.

The chemical involved was understood to be denatonium benzoate, which is used in products such as shampoos and liquid soaps.

Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said 23 people were taken to St John's Hospital after complaining of breathlessness and throat irritation.The spillage happened as the chemical was being moved on a forklift truck.Fire crews evacuated the building before making the area safe and clearing the chemical. About 20 firefighters wearing breathing equipment and chemical suits were involved in the two-hour operation.The fire service said the spill was "small" and that 23 people had complained of breathlessness and throat irritation. The casualties are understood to be workers at the warehouse.They were checked over by ambulance crews at the scene and taken to casualty for check-ups.Denatonium benzoate, often known as Bitrex, is a foul-tasting substance used in toxic household products such as bleach or anti-freeze to make them taste bitter and prevent ingestion.Dr Alison McCallum, director of public health and health policy at NHS Lothian, said: "NHS Lothian was alerted to the non-toxic chemical spill and appropriate action plans were immediately activated at St John's Hospital to deal with any casualties."

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Workers injured in chemical spillage

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