One person is dead following an ammonia leak at the Mount Paul Industrial Park in Kamloops, according to city officials.
The leak happened Thursday morning, with the City of Kamloops confirming that one person had died as a result of the incident.
“Public safety is our top priority – the scene is now stable and the evacuated businesses and other citizens can go about their business in the area,” said the city.
On Thursday afternoon, RCMP said the Tk’emlúps Rural Detachment and the Southeast District General Investigation Services are investigating the cause of an ammonia leak.
Originally, the city asked residents to avoid the area of 790 Sarcee Street East.
Police said they responded to assist Kamloops Fire and Rescue following reports of a leak in the area.
“Traffic was redirected while nearby businesses were evacuated. One person was transported to hospital from the initial incident and sadly succumbed to his injuries,” said Kamloops RCMP.
In a notice on social media on Thursday morning, the City of Kamloops said a hazardous materials team was en route and that RCMP were assisting with road closures.
Following that notice, CFJC Today said sources at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops indicated that one person had died due to the leak.
CFJC Today also said that according to a source at Royal Inland Hospital, a “code orange” was called to prepare staff to accept mass casualties, but that it was called off before 12 p.m.
B.C. Emergency Health Services told Global News that one person had been taken to hospital in critical condition after a call came in at about 10:30 a.m., and that five paramedic crews and two supervisors responded.
BCEHS said another two patients were transported to hospital in stable condition, while around six other patients said to be in stable condition were assessed at the scene.
In an email to Global News, Interior Health confirmed that the hospital made preparations to receive patients from an incident in Kamloops and was notified that eight patients would be brought in.
During the incident, Interior Health asked residents with non-urgent needs to avoid visiting the emergency department.
At 1:30 p.m., Interior Health said Royal Inland Hospital was providing care to four patients related to the incident.
And, at 2:30 p.m., IH said all four had been assessed, treated if needed and discharged.
Meanwhile, WorkSafeBC says it has launched an investigation into the incident.
“The purpose of our investigation is to identify the cause of the incident, including any contributing factors, so that similar incidents can be prevented from happening in the future,” said WorkSafe. “We are not able to provide any additional details while the investigation is underway.”
Kamloops RCMP Const. Crystal Evelyn added, “with public safety secured now, police will be conducting a parallel investigation to that of WorkSafeBC to establish what led to the fatal leak.”
Technical Safety BC, an independent organization that oversees the safe installation and operation of technical systems and equipment across B.C., says it has a safety officer en route.
The organization says it will be working with other agencies to examine the equipment involved and determine the cause of the incident.
“Our condolences go out to the friends, colleagues, and loved ones of the person who lost their life in today’s incident,” said Technical Safety BC, which added it will provide further information when it becomes available.
“Ammonia safety awareness is one of Technical Safety BC’s top priorities. We work closely with industry professionals to improve refrigeration systems safety, and to raise awareness around the risks presented by ammonia equipment.”
B.C. Deputy Premier Mike Farnworth issued a statement offering condolences to the family and friends of the victim.
“Workers and their families should not have to worry about their safety and well-being when they are on the job,” Fanfworth said.
“Tragedies such as this strengthen our resolve to ensure everyone in B.C. can enjoy a safe workplace.”
Comments