Factory in Merlimau ordered to close until probe into ammonia leak completed

JASIN (Bernama): Following an ammonia gas leak, the poultry processing factory in Merlimau here was ordered to close until the clean-up process, and investigations into the cause of the mishap are completed.

Melaka Tengah OCPD Asst Comm Afzanizar Ahmad said the leak, which occurred around 11.30am Tuesday (Sept 3), was believed to be from a gas pipe at the factory’s freezer section.

"So far, 26 workers, aged between 20 and 40, have been sent to the Jasin and Melaka Hospitals for further treatment after they suffered breathing difficulties. All of them are currently in the observation zone.

"About 800 other workers have been evacuated. The Fire and Rescue Department, with the help of the private sector, are in the process of carrying out cleaning-up work," he told a press conference at the operation centre at the factory here.

ACP Afzanizar said the incident posed no immediate threat to the surrounding communities or environment after a pollution test was conducted using gas detectors.

"However, anyone experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, or breathing difficulties must immediately go to a nearby health clinic or hospital for further examination and treatment," he said. - Bernama