Ni Incident Highlights Importance Of Dangerous Goods Packaging

By Author: Jhon Wright
Total Articles: 57
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Dangerous goods are transported around the world every day without incident thanks to the quality of the hazard labels and packaging now available.

However, sometimes accidents do still occur and these events help to highlight the importance of diligence at all times. For example, a recent incident in Northern Ireland raised alarm bells.

The emergency services were called in response to what was described as a “major incident” after a toxic gas used to kill rodents escaped from a ship that was docked at a harbour at Warrenpoint in County Down.

Aluminium phosphide was the pesticide involved in the accident and it is used to kill small mammals, including moles, mice and rats. The chemical escaped after cargo on the vessel became wet and unstable.

In total, 18 people were treated for exposure to the substance and police were informed of the possibility that the chemical compound could drift into the sea. Meanwhile, a 50-metre cordon was set up for additional safety.

A spokesman for the Police Service of Northern Ireland said: “It is believed that there are five casualties suffering from ...
... the effects of exposure to the gas.”

Also speaking at the time of the leak, local councillor Michael Ruane remarked: “The incident is confined to the harbour at this moment in time. The fire service and police seem to be keeping well back from it. There are a number of boats in the harbour - there are a number of small mussel boats and some larger vessels.”

When firms are involved in transporting dangerous goods, whether they are pesticides, explosives or anything else, it is vital they seek out suitable packaging. For example, many take advantage of the range of stainless steel drums that are now available. Also, they must take great care to move the goods from A to B as safely as possible.

For more information please visit – www.air-sea.co.uk/products.php