A carbon monoxide (CO) exposure at a pork processing plant in Derrimut, Melbourne’s west, prompted a major evacuation and hospitalisation of 21 people, Australian media reported. The leak at the factory on Benn Court was reported about 12:45 pm local time.
First responders provided oxygen therapy until paramedics arrived. Fire and rescue personnel evacuated most people, and advanced life support and intensive care ambulances were used to transfer those affected. The 21 victims were taken to Western Health Sunshine, Western Health Footscray, The Royal Melbourne and Werribee Mercy hospitals and were reported to be stable, 9 News confirmed. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus and using gas detectors found carbon monoxide levels at the scene to be “dangerously high.”
A fault in the meat preservation machinery caused the leak, which was sealed in less than an hour. Ventilation was used to reduce gas levels and WorkSafe inspectors attended the scene.
Understanding carbon monoxide poisoning
Carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless gas that can cause poisoning by preventing the blood from carrying oxygen. When inhaled, CO rapidly enters the bloodstream and binds to the haemoglobin in red blood cells, forming carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb). CO binds to haemoglobin about 200–300 times more strongly than oxygen, effectively blocking haemoglobin from picking up and transporting oxygen to vital organs such as the brain and heart. This reduces oxygen delivery and can cause asphyxiation and fainting even if the person is breathing normal air.
