Two people taken to hospital after ammonia detected at Fishery Port Road compound

Two individuals were hospitalized following an ammonia leak at a facility located at 11 Fishery Port Road in Jurong, Singapore, according to reports from local media outlets. The incident occurred on Monday, June 29, when emergency services were called to the scene around 11:45 am. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) responded swiftly and found elevated levels of ammonia within the compound of the ice supplier, Jurong Marine Cold Storage. As a result, the premises were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Additional buildings at addresses 9 and 15 Fishery Port Road were also vacated to ensure public safety.

The SCDF deployed hazardous materials (HazMat) specialists to investigate the source of the leak. These experts identified the faulty pipe responsible for the release of ammonia vapors within a room inside the facility. To mitigate further risk, the supply valve connected to the affected pipe was promptly turned off. Subsequent checks using HazMat detectors revealed that the concentration of ammonia vapor had significantly decreased, indicating that the immediate danger had been addressed. Despite this, the SCDF issued a warning advising the general public to remain clear of the area until further notice.

The two individuals who were hospitalized were reportedly assessed by SCDF personnel upon their initial contact with the situation. They were transported to Singapore General Hospital for medical evaluation due to exposure to the ammonia vapors. While the exact nature of their injuries has not been disclosed, the presence of ammonia in such quantities can pose serious health risks, including respiratory irritation, eye discomfort, and potential chemical burns depending on the level of exposure.

Jurong Marine Cold Storage, the company operating the facility where the incident took place, is known for providing ice and cold storage solutions to businesses in the region. The facility's location at 11 Fishery Port Road is part of a larger industrial complex in Jurong Industrial Estate, a hub for manufacturing and logistics activities. The evacuation of surrounding buildings highlights the potential impact of such incidents on nearby structures and communities, even though the primary concern was confined to the immediate vicinity of the leaking pipe.

Local media outlets, including Channel NewsAsia and The Straits Times, have covered the event extensively, emphasizing the swift response by emergency services and the ongoing efforts to contain the situation. Both reports noted that the SCDF continued to monitor the area and provide regular updates to the public. The incident underscores the importance of proper maintenance and safety protocols in industrial settings, particularly those involving potentially hazardous substances like ammonia, which is commonly used as a refrigerant in cold storage facilities.

Looking ahead, authorities will likely conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the leak to prevent similar occurrences in the future. This could involve inspecting the facility’s infrastructure, reviewing operational procedures, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, there may be calls for increased oversight or training for staff working with such chemicals. Until then, the affected area remains under watch, with the public urged to exercise caution and adhere to advisories from emergency services.