Pupils unwell after school lab chemical spill
A chemical spill at a popular high school has left nearly 30 students and teachers feeling unwell.
Fire and Rescue NSW were called to the Georges River College boys campus in Hurstville about midday after reports a 600ml bottle of benzyl chloride leaked in a science laboratory.
Benzyl chloride is sometimes used to make dyes and pharmaceuticals.
It’s understood the chemical was in the process of being moved for disposal when the spill occurred.
FRNSW sent in 18 firefighters, including hazardous materials specialists, and five fire trucks to assist the clean-up.
A number of people in the immediate vicinity felt irritation and smelt strong fumes as a result of the incident.
NSW Ambulance paramedics were also called to monitor 20 students and eight teachers as a precaution. However, no one need to be taken to hospital.
FRNSW crews worked to decontaminate the classroom and using specialist equipment to conduct atmospheric monitoring.
Other students at the school have been moved to a safe location.
