Worker dies after chemical spill injures dozens in Germany

A chemical spill at a company in Nuremberg in southern Germany on Friday left one man dead and injured some 30 others, reported dpa.

The Bavarian Red Cross said 17 of the injured were taken to hospital for further treatment and observation. Police said six people suffered respiratory injuries.

Two employees had lost consciousness at the scene, one of whom later died in hospital, police said.

The entire site was evacuated. Authorities said there was no danger to the public, as the toxic substance remained inside the building and did not escape into the air.

A spokesman for the Nuremberg fire brigade said the company routinely works with chemicals. The nature of the substance involved was not immediately known.

The fire service said the alarm was raised shortly before midday. A large contingent of the professional fire service, along with volunteer fire brigades from neighbouring towns, was deployed.

Initial responders described finding a “dramatic situation,” as several people had to be rescued and brought outside to safety.

A total of 65 firefighters were dispatched, including several teams in chemical protection suits. Around 50 members of the ambulance service, along with police officers, were also involved. In total, about 70 employees were evacuated from the building.

The Nuremberg criminal police have launched an investigation, but officers have not yet been able to enter the building.

It remains unclear how the accident occurred — for example, whether the substance leaked from a faulty machine or system, or whether human error played a role.