Battery leak sends 12 to hospital

Twelve people were hospitalised after a hazardous substance was released at a technical company in the Dutch province of Overijssel. The incident occurred when a forklift battery “dried out” and emitted toxic gas. According to reports the release happened in a prefab production area where housing components are made. The battery overheated or was overcharged, causing its liquid to evaporate and release sulfur dioxide gas. Emergency services escalated the response under GRIP-1, a Dutch emergency coordination level in which multiple agencies work together, and the response involved 10 ambulances and a mobile medical team.  Eleven employees were transported to hospitals for further examination, along with one firefighter who also developed symptoms.