A major incident was declared at one of Scotland's largest hospitals this afternoon, plunging the facility into lockdown and triggering a mass emergency service response.
Edinburgh's Royal Infirmary was thrown into chaos following reports of a suspected chemical incident, prompting the immediate evacuation of multiple wards and departments. Specialist hazardous area response teams were scrambled to the scene as a precautionary measure.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion as patients and staff were hurriedly moved from affected areas. The hospital's main entrances were sealed off, with security personnel turning away visitors and diverting new patients to other facilities.
Emergency Response in Action
Scottish Ambulance Service confirmed their hazardous response teams were attending the incident alongside Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. A multi-agency command structure was established to manage the escalating situation.
NHS Lothian officials issued urgent statements confirming the lockdown, stating: "We can confirm a potential chemical incident and have initiated our emergency protocols. Patient and staff safety remains our absolute priority."
Impact on Hospital Services
The incident has caused significant disruption to hospital operations:
- Emergency Department diversions to nearby hospitals
- Cancellation of non-urgent appointments and procedures
- Restricted access to critical care areas
- Implementation of major incident triage protocols
Patients with scheduled appointments were advised to contact the hospital before travelling, while those requiring urgent medical attention were redirected to alternative NHS facilities across Lothian.
Ongoing Situation
As of late afternoon, the situation remains ongoing with emergency services continuing to assess the potential hazard. No serious injuries have been reported, though several staff members underwent precautionary decontamination procedures.
The exact nature of the chemical substance involved has not been disclosed, with investigations focusing on identifying the source and ensuring no ongoing risk to patients or staff.
Health officials have promised further updates as the situation develops, while praising the "swift and professional response" of hospital staff and emergency services.
