The government advised people in Nakhon Pathom province to stay indoors to avoid the negative impacts of two solvents leaking from a local factory.
Deputy government spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul issued the warning after diphenyl oxide and biphenyl leaked from the polyester and synthetic fiber factory of Indorama Polyester Industries Co on Phetkasem Road in Khun Kaeo sub-district of Nakhon Chaisri district this morning.
Ms Traisuree said that the smell of the chemicals spread in the area and its vicinity including locations adjacent to Bangkok.
“Please stay indoors… and always wear face masks to protect the respiratory system because the factory keeps the compounds that irritate the respiratory tract,” the deputy government spokeswoman said.
Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, acting prime minister, ordered the Pollution Control Department and the Department of Industrial Works to quickly solve the environmental impacts, investigate the cause of the leaks and strictly enforce relevant laws, she said.
Gen Prawit also ordered public health organizations to help the people who had health problems due to the leaks, Ms Traisuree said.
She quoted the Pollution Control Department as reporting that the leaks happened at about 6.15am and the owner of the factory already stopped the leakage. However, negative impacts were widespread and also affected people in Nonthaburi province.
Dr Rungruethai Mualprasitporn, Nonthaburi public health chief, said both solvents were used in the production of plastic pellets and were light enough to be airborne.
The chemicals were blown to three sub-districts in Bang Kruai and Bang Yai districts of Nonthaburi and affected about 100-200 people. The incident happened in the morning and resulted in the closure of many schools today. Exposure to diphenyl oxide caused irritation to skin and the respiratory system, the doctor said. (TNA)
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