Panic swept through Udon Thani on the evening of October 26, as an ammonia gas leak at an ice factory trapped six workers inside, prompting a tense rescue operation. Nearby residents reported difficulty breathing and a stinging sensation as they scrambled to escape the area.

 

At around 18:00, Udon Thani’s emergency response centre, received a report from locals who noticed a strong ammonia odour emanating from an ice factory on Adulyadej Lane in Udon Thani Municipality. Upon learning that six workers were trapped inside, authorities immediately contacted Udon Thani’s police and the Sangsomtham Rescue Unit, alongside municipal disaster relief teams, who quickly arrived at the scene.

 

Rescue teams cordoned off the entire road for safety, advising residents and motorists to steer clear of the area. Using loudspeakers, officials urged people to remain at least 200 metres from the scene to avoid exposure to the toxic gas.

 

Rescuers, equipped with protective suits, entered the factory, successfully sealed the gas valve, and safely evacuated the six trapped workers without injury.

 

One local resident, living adjacent to the factory, described the frightening moments: “The ammonia smell hit us hard. I could barely breathe, and my body was stinging. We rushed out of our homes and called for help.” Fortunately, the quick response by multiple agencies averted a larger crisis in the densely populated area.

 

Picture from responders.

-- 2024-10-27
 

 

Sounds like the leak was on the “hot” side of the chiller loop. Good thing.

with no zone planning, dangerous companies near living area's you get this once and a while

On the plus side, local people with blocked sinuses found relief.😀