A significant emergency operation brought the heart of Brisbane's business district to a standstill on Tuesday afternoon following a hazardous chemical leak at a medical facility.
The incident, which occurred at a clinic on Adelaide Street, triggered a massive response from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES). Specialist HAZMAT crews were immediately dispatched to assess and contain the threat, donning full protective equipment to enter the affected building.
A large section of the CBD core was swiftly evacuated as a precautionary measure, with police establishing a substantial exclusion zone around the scene. Office workers, shoppers, and residents were directed away from the area as emergency services worked to manage the situation.
Initial reports from authorities indicated the incident involved a spill of a "corrosive substance" within the clinic. While the exact nature of the chemical was not immediately disclosed, its potential danger warranted the severe response.
Paramedics from Queensland Ambulance Service were on standby throughout the ordeal. Fortunately, early assessments confirmed that no serious injuries were reported. Several individuals underwent precautionary decontamination procedures at the scene as a standard safety protocol.
The event caused significant disruption during the busy lunchtime period, with multiple city blocks closed to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Public transport routes were also altered to avoid the exclusion zone.
By late afternoon, QFES officials confirmed that the situation had been stabilised and the chemical agent had been safely contained. The all-clear was given, allowing evacuees to gradually return to their buildings and businesses.
An investigation into the cause of the leak is now underway, with Workplace Health and Safety officials expected to be involved.
