Qld:Chemical scare over after powder proves harmless

AAP General News (Australia)
12-12-2001
Qld:Chemical scare over after powder proves harmless

Operations at a bulk handling company on Brisbane's southside have returned to normal
after a chemical emergency earlier today.

A spokeswoman for the Queensland Fire and Rescue Authority says the building in Cornwall
Street, Fairfield, was evacuated and two workers taken to hospital by car around 9.30
am after a white powder was found spilled inside a shipping container.

Two men were taken by car to Brisbane's Princess Alexandra Hospital after one complained
of a rash and the other of a headache.

Hazardous chemicals experts, police and ambulance officers were called in to quarantine
the facility and remain on standby until tests could be carried out on the powder.

The QFRA spokeswoman said it turned out to be harmless PVC powder, and no ill-effects
have been reported.

The two men taken to hospital are expected to be released this afternoon.

AAP RTV rad/sc/rt

KEYWORD: CHEMICAL (BRISBANE)

2001 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.