Thirty-seven people were exposed to concrete-curing chemicals at an industrial building at Heinävaara in Joensuu on Wednesday. When inhaled, the substance causes irritation to the respiratory tract and possibly the skin.
“Vapours were released while drying the chemicals. People were exposed when the vapours went directly in the ventilation system of the building,” said the on-duty fire chief.
The smell had become so strong that people in the building reported the matter and evacuated. According to the chief fire fighter, the situation was calm at all times.
At least five people were slightly injured. They were transported to the hospital for further treatment. According to the fire chief, the remainder were treated for shortness of breath and respiratory symptoms.
The accident affected two companies in the building, which do plastics and metal machining.
