A chemical incident at the Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Melbourne resulted in nine individuals requiring hospital treatment on the evening of the incident. Emergency services were alerted around 6.15pm due to reports of a gas odour inside the facility. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered that approximately 40 people had been affected by the chemicals present.
Paramedics transported eight children and one adult to nearby hospitals for further evaluation. Six individuals were admitted to Sunshine Hospital, while three were taken to the Royal Children’s Hospital. Fortunately, all patients were reported to be in a stable condition.
Hazmat experts from Fire and Rescue Victoria conducted assessments at the scene, identifying a positive test for sodium hydrogen sulphate. To ensure safety, the leisure centre was ventilated, necessitating the evacuation of around 200 patrons.
By 8.16pm, authorities confirmed that the centre was safe for re-entry. In response to the incident, both WorkSafe and Victoria Police initiated inquiries. WorkSafe confirmed that inspectors were on-site to monitor the situation and address any potential health and safety concerns.
Swimming lessons resumed the following morning, indicating that operations were returning to normal. Attempts by 9News to reach out to Hume City Council for comments were unsuccessful.