Bangkok Post – Chemical leak prompts evacuation in Prachin Buri

The explosion resulted from a malfunction of the chemical tank

A chemical leak occurred after an explosion at a factory in Prachin Buri’s Sri Maha Pho district, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of people.

The incident, which took place on Friday at the HSMT New Material Technology (Thailand) Co factory, caused a large emission of chemical fumes, forcing nearly 200 residents to evacuate their homes. Locals, including the elderly, were taken to a community center in Tambon Tha Toom for their safety.

Firefighters from the Tha Toom Tambon Administration Office (TAO) were able to disperse the smoke and bring the situation under control on the day of the incident.

The evacuation was ordered by District Chief Juthamas Bua-Phuean, who also arranged for medical teams from Sri Maha Pho Hospital and the district public health office to assess the health of the evacuees.

Of the 183 people evacuated, 105 had no symptoms, 48 ​​reported mild throat and nose irritation and 30, mostly elderly or with pre-existing health conditions, required close monitoring for more serious symptoms such as eye irritation and nausea Of these, 25 were taken to Sri Maha Pho Hospital and one to Chularat 304 International Hospital.

According to the latest information, the situation has returned to normal and the evacuees have been returned to their homes.

Locals reported hearing a loud explosion and smelling a strong odor around 3pm on Friday before experiencing symptoms including throat irritation and difficulty breathing.

According to the factory where the incident occurred, the explosion resulted from a malfunction of a chemical tank used in the production of surfactants, or chemical compounds that decrease the surface tension of a liquid.

Authorities, including the Prachin Buri Industry Office and the Tha Toom TAO, have suspended operations at the factory.