Ammonia Leak at Ekurhuleni Chicken Plant Sends 24 Workers to Hospital

Emergency Services Respond

The City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) reported that the alarm was raised after the city’s Life-Threatening Call Centre received a report of the leak. Firefighters from the Olifantsfontein Fire Station were swiftly dispatched to the plant, located on 17 Industria Road, to manage the situation and assist those affected.

Upon arrival, emergency responders found multiple workers experiencing difficulty breathing due to exposure to ammonia fumes. Paramedics were called to the scene to provide immediate medical assistance. All 24 patients were stabilised on-site before being transported by ER24 and Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) emergency medical services to nearby hospitals for further care.

Initial Cause and Plant Evacuation

Authorities indicated that routine maintenance had been conducted at the facility since early morning. At approximately 16:23, one of the plant’s pressure-release valves is believed to have failed, allowing ammonia fumes to escape and endanger staff. Employees were quickly evacuated from the premises as a precaution to minimise further exposure while emergency teams assessed the risk.

Ammonia Exposure and Safety Measures

Ammonia is commonly used as a refrigerant in food processing plants, but it can pose significant health hazards if released into the air. Exposure to high concentrations can lead to respiratory issues, eye irritation, and even more severe health complications if not promptly addressed.

The site’s engineering manager reported that, during the incident, the highest ammonia concentration detected was 222 parts per million (ppm). Immediate action by the safety teams and emergency personnel helped to contain the leak and reduce further risk to employees.

Plant Cleared for Reopening

After ensuring all staff had been evacuated and treated, responders conducted extensive atmospheric testing inside the plant. DEMS spokesperson Eric Maloka confirmed that by approximately 19:45, subsequent testing showed ammonia levels had dropped to zero.

“Following the successful intervention and confirmation that ammonia levels had returned to zero, employees were given the go-ahead to return to work,” Maloka stated.

The plant was declared safe, allowing operations to resume under the watchful eye of emergency and maintenance personnel.

Workplace Safety and Community Reassurance

Incidents involving hazardous chemicals underscore the importance of stringent maintenance and rapid emergency protocols in industrial settings. Regular equipment checks and ongoing staff training are essential to preventing leaks and minimising their impact when they do occur. The quick response by Ekurhuleni’s emergency services helped ensure the health and safety of the plant’s workers during this incident.

While all affected employees received prompt medical attention, the community remains alert to the risks associated with ammonia and similar substances used in industrial food production.

Understanding Ammonia and Industrial Risks

Ammonia is widely relied upon for refrigeration in poultry processing and similar facilities. Its toxicity requires careful handling and robust safety systems. In the event of a leak, standard emergency measures include immediate evacuation, use of protective ventilation, and coordinated medical assessments.

• Prompt medical care is essential for those exposed.
• Ongoing monitoring after an incident ensures the workspace remains safe.
• Regular maintenance of technical equipment can prevent similar accidents.

For now, the plant has resumed operations, and affected workers are receiving appropriate treatment while safety teams continue to monitor the site and investigate the technical failure.