Four Injured As Chemical Reaction Triggers Emergency In Cape Town

At least four people were treated for minor injuries following a chemical incident at Ecowize in Montague Gardens, Cape Town, on Monday afternoon.

Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services were alerted to smoke coming from the premises at around 3:30pm. Images shared on social media showed a thick orange vapour cloud hovering over the industrial area, prompting concern among nearby businesses and residents.

300-Metre Safety Zone Put in Place

Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson Jermaine Carelse said the first officer on scene immediately identified the situation as a chemical-related emergency.

“Apart from evacuating the building, an isolation area was established as well as a 300 metre containment area,” Carelse said.

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Hazmat technicians were dispatched to the scene to conduct a visual inspection and assess possible thermal activity and chemical reactions.

Area Declared Safe After Chemical Reaction Stabilises

By late Monday evening, Carelse confirmed that the hazmat team had completed its assessment.

“The temperature of the container at the centre of today’s reaction has started stabilising. As it cools down, the chemical reaction will stop. The vapour cloud that hung over the area has dissipated, and the area is deemed safe,” he said.

The building was ventilated and later handed back to the owners, with no further risk reported.

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