GEORGE TOWN: Five people were taken to hospital after a mercury spill incident at a courier sorting facility in Jalan Trengganu here on Monday (June 22).
The incident involved an estimated 500ml of mercury believed to be from a parcel that was broken during the sorting process at the facility.
The Fire and Rescue Department said it received a distress call at 1.03pm and a team arrived at the scene within six minutes.
A hazmat (hazardous materials) team from the Jalan Perak fire station, assisted by personnel from Bayan Baru, was deployed to contain and decontaminate the area.
Firemen carried out mercury decontamination works using sulphur powder and bleach while environmental pH readings were also taken to ensure the area was safe, the department said.
Five individuals were exposed in the incident and given initial treatment by Health Ministry personnel on site before being sent to Penang Hospital for further treatment.
The victims were reported to be in stable condition.
The operation was completed at 3.06pm after authorities confirmed there were no further hazards, the department added.
A total of 17 firefighters, including officers from hazmat units, were involved in the operation. Police and Health Ministry teams also assisted at the scene.
No structural damage or secondary contamination was reported following the incident.
