Leak of Fire Suppression Chemicals at Construction Site in Geumcheon-gu, Seoul... 2 Dead, 9 Injured

Two Injured with Severe Respiratory Damage... Under Hospital Treatment
Drug Storage Facility Damaged... Fire Department Issues Response Level 1

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Byung-don] At around 8:52 a.m. on the 23rd, a fire suppressant agent leaked underground at the new construction site of Gasan Metro Knowledge Industry Center in Gasan-dong, Geumcheon-gu, Seoul, resulting in the deaths of 2 workers and injuries to 9 others.

According to the fire authorities, two men aged 50 and 45 who were working on the third basement floor were transported to the hospital but died. Additionally, 2 people sustained serious injuries to their respiratory systems, and 7 others suffered minor injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

The workers were performing insulation work on boilers and fire protection facilities underground when the equipment storing the carbon dioxide-based fire suppressant agent was damaged, causing the accident.

At the time of the accident, a total of 52 people were working on site, and except for the 11 casualties, all others evacuated on their own. The fire authorities are conducting a search operation to determine if there are any additional workers needing rescue.

At 9:08 a.m., the fire authorities issued a Level 1 response mobilizing all available personnel, dispatching 29 fire trucks and 99 firefighters to the scene. Police and district office personnel are also supporting accident management at the site.

The police and fire authorities plan to investigate the exact cause of the accident once the rescue operations are completed.