12 hospitalised after ammonia leak in ice plant at Munambam in Kochi

As many as 12 people were hospitalized complaining of restlessness and breathing difficulties following an ammonia leak at a private ice factory in Munambam on Friday, June 5.

The leak that occurred at noon in the facility near the mini fishing shelter was taken under control by the fire brigade and rescue teams from Kuzey Paravur, which took 2 hours.

An official from the fire station said that the accident occurred when the building’s sunshade plate came off and fell on the ammonia receiver tank at the facility, damaging a valve. Liquid ammonia is a commonly used refrigerant in ice plants.

Three workers at the facility and some nearby residents reported having difficulty breathing due to the gas spreading around. Some people also experienced a burning sensation in their eyes. They were all taken to a nearby primary health center and a young woman with a history of asthma had to be transferred to the Taluk Hospital in Paravur. All were discharged at 18.00.

Pallippuram panchayat president EK Jayan said the residents of the house behind the facility were most affected. “Luckily, the children were at school. Residents near the facility were advised to stay elsewhere for a day as a precaution. The Police and Fire and Rescue Services department suggested an urgent meeting to discuss better security measures as there are many ice facilities in the crowded area. An emergency exit needs to be provided from the area towards the main road,” he said.

“Ammonia leakage from ice plants is occasionally reported. The frequency of such incidents has decreased in recent years due to stricter compliance with safety norms,” ​​a fire and rescue official said.

“As soon as the leak occurred, police and fire brigade along with elected representatives and doctors from the primary health center rushed to the spot. Ambulance was also arranged immediately,” said an officer of Munambam police. He added that no case has been registered yet in the incident.