Around 39 individuals at Kuala Lumpur International Airport fell ill on Thursday due to a gas leak originating from an aircraft engineering facility, according to local authorities. The incident occurred at the Southern Support Zone Sepang Aircraft Engineering facility, separate from the main passenger terminal, ensuring no disruptions to flights.
The Selangor State Fire Department responded swiftly to an emergency call at 11:23 am (local time), mobilizing hazardous materials teams to the scene. Employees from three companies operating within the facility reported symptoms including dizziness and nausea. Fourteen individuals were treated on-site at the air disaster unit, while one person required hospitalization.
Authorities confirmed that the chemical responsible for the incident was methyl mercaptan, used as an odorant in liquefied petroleum gas. The leak originated from an unused tank at the facility and posed no broader risk to public safety, as per the fire department’s statement.
Efforts to contain the leak involved patching up the affected area, with plans to dismantle and safely dispose of the tank. The incident underscores the critical response capabilities and safety measures in place at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
The situation was swiftly brought under control, and operations at the airport continued without disruption. Investigations into the cause of the gas leak are ongoing, ensuring preventive measures are strengthened to prevent future incidents.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols in industrial environments, particularly those handling hazardous materials.
