A devastating fire at a sago factory near Attur, Salem, led to the hospitalization of 10 people, including a firefighter, due to toxic chlorine smoke.

Key Takeaways

  • A massive fire broke out at a sago factory in Salem district due to a suspected short circuit.
  • 17 bags of chlorine powder caught fire, releasing toxic fumes.
  • 10 individuals, including 9 workers and 1 firefighter, were hospitalized for respiratory distress.
  • All victims are reported to be out of danger.

A massive fire erupted at a sago factory near Attur in the Salem district on Sunday evening, leading to a medical emergency. Ten people, including a dedicated firefighter, had to be rushed to the hospital after inhaling thick, toxic smoke emanating from the facility.

According to police officials, the incident occurred around 7:00 PM. The blaze rapidly spread to a storage room containing 17 bags of chlorine powder, which is typically used for cleaning factory tanks. The intense heat and chemical reaction caused the smoke to become extremely dense, leading to several workers fainting on the spot.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the intersection of chemical storage and electrical instability poses a significant risk in small-scale industrial units. The lack of immediate automated suppression systems in such factories often exacerbates the spread of toxic gases during a fire.

Industrial accidents involving chemical combustion require immediate specialized respiratory protection for first responders.

During the rescue operation, firefighter N. Vijayakumar also succumbed to the heavy smoke and required medical intervention. The nine workers identified include M. Marimuthu, M. Manikandan, and others, all of whom are currently receiving treatment. Preliminary investigations by the Attur Rural police suggest that a short circuit was the primary trigger of the fire.

Historical Background

In recent years, industrial zones in Tamil Nadu have seen a rise in fire-related incidents linked to aging electrical infrastructure and inadequate storage protocols for hazardous chemicals like chlorine, highlighting a need for stricter regulatory enforcement.

Did You Know?: Chlorine gas is heavier than air, meaning it tends to settle in low-lying areas, making it extremely dangerous during factory fires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What caused the fire at the Salem factory?
A: Preliminary inquiries indicate that a short circuit was the cause of the fire.

Q2: Is the condition of the victims critical?
A: No, police sources confirmed that all 10 people are currently out of danger.