JOHOR BARU – An Indian national has died and a local man is in critical condition after they allegedly inhaled chemical residue while cleaning a tanker at a vehicle washing centre at Jalan Seri Perkasa 1/1 in Taman Tampoi Indah here yesterday.
Larkin Fire and Rescue Station chief Suhaimi Abdul Jamal said Magehindran, in his 40s, died, while his co-worker, S. Balamurali, 32, is injured.
He said 12 firefighters, a fire engine, an Emergency Rescue Medical Services vehicle and two rapid intervention motorcycles were rushed to the scene after receiving a call at 9.58am.
“When they arrived, they found an unconscious victim and another semi-conscious man on top of an empty tanker.
“The tanker had previously carried Fatty Alcohol UN No. 3082, which is widely used for detergents.
“We believe that the victims inhaled the chemical residue as they were at the manhole of the tank.”
The Indian national was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other victim is being treated at the Sultanah Aminah Hospital here.
Another local worker, S. Thangamali, 34, did not sustain any injury.
Suhaimi said a hazardous materials team has conducted checks to ensure the area is safe. – Bernama, April 27, 2021
