The eThekwini Municipality has launched an urgent investigation after toxic fumes affected learners and teachers at a Wentworth school. The eThekwini Municipality has launched an urgent investigation after toxic fumes disrupted a school in Wentworth yesterday, affecting both learners and teachers. IOL reported on Thursday thatUmbilo Secondary Schoolwas evacuated after learners and teachers detected a chemical fume.
“The City is currently verifying the company’s compliance documentation and operating procedures and has initiated processes that may lead to legal action should any non-compliance be confirmed,” the municipality said. Fire services and health teams, joined by private ambulance crews, rushed to the scene within minutes, stabilising affected pupils and staff. Those impacted were transported to Wentworth Hospital for treatment.
No fatalities were reported according to the municipality. Investigations traced the odour to a nearby company conducting a container-cleaning operation using ethyl acrylate. Fumes are believed to have drifted toward the school under windy conditions.
[paywall]
Inhalation of ethyl acrylate primarily affects the respiratory tract and the central nervous system, with symptoms ranging from mild sensory irritation to severe medical emergencies, depending on the concentration and duration of exposure. South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) coordinator Desmond D’Sa condemned the company that was responsible forchemical. “We got the smell in our offices first, and we were there when the children were collapsing and all that.
[/paywall]
All Zim News – Bringing you the latest news and updates.
