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Tue, 07 Apr, 2015 12:08:28 AM FTimes – STT Report, April 7  Fazer's logo in Helsinki. File Photo – Lehtikuva. Ten workers were exposed late Sunday to an ammonia leak at the Fazer bakery in Lappeenranta.
The employees experienced respiratory tract irritation and were taken for observation to South Karelia Central Hospital emergency room, said the rescue department.
“Everyone has already left the hospital,” said police Inspector Ari Keskisaarit to STT on Monday evening.
The ammonia leaked from equipment used for cooling down the bakery. The leak occurred on the second floor, which employees do not frequent. From the second floor, ammonia vapours spread throughout the working area.
The police had to isolate the bakery for several hundred meters around due to the leak. They also warned nearby residents of the possible danger. It is believed, however, that any risks from the leak are now gone.
By morning, the building on Myllymäenkatu in the heart of the industrial district had been ventilated and the police had announced that the danger was over. Work in the bakery can continue as soon as the leak has been repaired.
The reason for the leak was not yet known on Monday. According to YLE news, the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency, Tukes, plans to request a review on the cause of the accident. STT was unable to reach a Tukes representative for comment.
The police are investigating the leak as an occupational accident.
The police could not say whether or not the leak had caused permanent damage to the bakery.
The Fazer representative in Lappeenranta did not want to comment on the subject with STT.
Ammonia is a colourless, pungent-smelling gas. When mixed with air, it can form an explosive gas mixture. Ammonia vapour causes irritation to the respiratory tract and eyes and, when present in high concentration, also irritates the skin. Severe exposure can be deadly.
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