An Albany business remains under a hazmat warning more than 24-hours after a fire was sparked in bags of agricultural fumigant and began releasing plumes of phospine gas on Wednesday morning.
Emergency services raced to a Willyung business about 10.30am on Wednesday after receiving reports of possibly toxic smoke plumes coming from the business on Copal Road near the intersection of Chester Pass Road and Menang Drive.
Seven appliances from Albany Fire and Rescue Service and Albany Volunteer Fire Rescue Service were sent to the scene.
A Department of Fire and Emergency Services spokesperson said bags containing agricultural fumigant were releasing phosphine gas fumes, which had now been contained to the property.
They said the blaze was controlled and crews were “letting it burn itself out”.
St John WA transported a man in his 40s under lights and sirens from the area to the Albany Health Campus.
The incident resulted in a hazmat general warning for people in Willyung about 11.15am on Wednesday, which was reduced to the area surrounding the business on Thursday.
Chester Pass Road, Willyung Road, Rocky Crossing Road and Menang Drive were reopened by 7.15am on Thursday.
DFES reported the fire is now extinguished but off-gassing, meaning the release of gases, chemicals and volatile organic compounds into the air, continues.
Motorists were asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully.
WHAT TO DO
- As a precautionary measure, people in the area should remain inside, out of the smoke or fumes, with doors and windows closed. Air conditioners should also be switched off.
- People should stay away from the area. If you are already in the area take advice from emergency services personnel.
- People with medical concerns should contact their local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222.
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