More than 100 individuals experienced discomfort in their eyes, throat, and skin after coming into contact with a strong amount of ammonia due to an explosion at an ice factory in Bang Lamung district of Chon Buri late Wednesday night.
Emergency responders mentioned that some of the victims lost consciousness from breathing in ammonia and were provided initial medical care at the location before being transported to several hospitals in Bang Lamung, Pattaya, Si Racha and Laem Chabang.
The explosion at the ice factory in Nong Prue sub-district released stored ammonia into the air, spreading over a one kilometre radius of the factory.
The ammonia gas extended into a nearby neighborhood, affecting numerous individuals who encountered skin, throat, and eye irritations. District officials and emergency workers assisted in relocating residents to safety, more than a kilometre away from the ice factory.
Local officials then blocked off areas within a one kilometre radius of the factory, while firefighters wearing gas masks worked to halt the ammonia leak.
Assisted by factory employees, it took approximately three hours to contain the leak.
Subsequently, district health officials advised individuals in the vicinity of the factory not to consume food that may have been exposed to ammonia and to promptly consult a doctor or health professional if they experience breathing issues, or eye or skin irritations.
