Around 150 people were evacuated from Guy's Hospital in Southwark, London, on Thursday morning after a chlorine gas leak. The incident occurred shortly before 9am when chemicals were accidentally mixed in a boiler room, producing chlorine gas. Firefighters and ambulance crews attended the scene.
London Ambulance Service reported that nine people were treated at the scene, with four taken to hospital. A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said one person was injured by a chemical reaction, and several others who came to their aid were treated for chlorine inhalation. The hospital confirmed the leak happened in a non-patient area.
Witnesses described hearing alarms and seeing crowds outside. Ronald Gilchrist, visiting his girlfriend, said people were told to leave without explanation. Philippa Garrott reported seeing fire engines and ambulances near London Bridge Station, with cordons in place. One person appeared to be covered with wet towels.
The fire brigade carried out a sweep for chlorine gas readings and ventilated the building. A precautionary evacuation of the basement and ground floors was conducted. The hospital has since reopened, with a spokesperson advising patients to attend appointments unless contacted otherwise.
Guy's Hospital is a major elective centre with 400 beds, specialising in cancer, kidney, urology, dental, ear, nose and throat, and orthopaedic care.
