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Chemical release in Germany factory injures 39
Jan 17, 2012, 17:29 GMT
Cologne, Germany - A cloud of chlorine gas created by an accidental chemical reaction injured 39 workers at a German factory Tuesday, fire brigades near Cologne said.
Seven workers were in critical condition in hospital after inhaling the gas at a lock factory in Bruehl.
A fire chief said the gas attacks the lung lining. 'In very serious cases, you get a fluid buildup that can be fatal,' he said.
Police said human error was to blame for a chlorine bleach, which is used to clean the cylinder-locks before they are electroplated, being mixed with 200 litres of hydrochloric acid. The reaction gave off the gas.
Nearly 300 staff were evacuated from the site, but most resumed work after the emergency.
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