CBRN event in Australia on Tue 15th October 2024

A chemical explosion at Sydney University has sent three people to hospital. Paramedics were called to the university just before 10am following a minor chemical explosion after receiving reports of a person suffering from chemical burns. One employee and two bystanders were impacted by the acid-based chemicals which were being moved for disposal, a NSW Fire and Rescue spokesman said. The worker was reportedly transporting chemicals when a reaction occurred in the bucket, causing a “vapour cloud” and explosion. Three people were exposed to the vapour cloud, and all three were taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital with minor injuries. Firefighters immediately set up an exclusion zone and called for a specialist HAZMAT crew to assist with the incident. The area has since been secured and analysed before being decontaminated and rendered safe. One person received burns to his hands and was taken to hospital by NSW Ambulance. A further two people were also transported as a precaution. SafeWork and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) have been informed of the incident. We’re grateful there do not seem to have been serious injuries as a result, however ambulance services were on campus and provided appropriate healthcare to the small number we’re aware of who required it. A University of Sydney spokesmans advised that if any of their community was in the vicinity of the Sydney Uni Sports and Aquatic Centre and Services Building locations on Tuesday morning, and are suffering from any symptoms, or think they were exposed to any chemicals, to seek immediate medical advice. Symtoms include itchiness to skin/eyes, irritation to respiratory tract.