Kgn Wharves reopens after chlorine spill

Raymond Graham, Gleaner Writer

HUNDREDS of customers who turned up for business at the Kingston Wharves yesterday went home empty-handed because work was brought to a screeching halt after a cylinder containing chlorine exploded on the compound.

The explosion occurred around midday.

An individual who was on the wharf when the spill occurred said injured persons appeared to have been taken to hospital.

The individual, who wished not to be named, said an unbearable odour emanated from the spill.

"A strong smell, a very strong smell that was so strong it is as if it would knock you out. It smelled like ammonia, but 100 times stronger," the employee recounted.

Fire brigade, NWC called

Yesterday afternoon, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) said it had received reports that Kingston Wharves Berth One and its surrounding areas were safe for persons travelling and working in the vicinity.

"The chlorine spill which occurred earlier today at the Kingston Wharves, Berth One, has now been corrected and all hazardous substances have been removed by the National Water Commission and the Jamaica Fire Brigade," the ODPEM said. "Port operations in the affected areas of the wharf have resumed normal duties."

The customary hustle and bustle associated with the wharf was conspicuously absent yesterday because health fears forced management to evacuate both customers and employees from all buildings on the compound.

Workers rushed to hospital

Several emergency vehicles, including three fire engines and an ambulance, rushed to the site. Shortly afterwards, several workers who had inhaled the fumes from the chemical spill were rushed to hospital by ambulance.

One female security guard, apparently overpowered by the fumes, was lying on the ground after inhaling the chemical. Customers on the outside complained of dizziness and noted that they could smell the odour coming from the building.

Despite not being able to collect their goods, scores of customers who turned up said they believed the company's management had done the right thing.

"I came all the way from Hanover this morning to collect my barrels, but I did not get through and I am not quarrelling because my health comes first, and even the strong odour inside was affecting me," one female customer said.