Incident Highlights Importance of Proper Safety Protocols in Plantations

Accidental Inhalation of Pesticide Fumes Leaves Nine Plantation Workers Hospitalized

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah – Nine plantation workers in Kinabatangan were rushed to hospital today for suspected inhalation of Carbosulfan UN3077 pesticide fumes while fertilising oil palm trees.

The Incident

The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) reported that the incident occurred at around 9 am in an eight-hectare plantation. However, JBPM was only alerted to the incident at 3:11 pm.

Victims Already on Their Way to Hospital

“Unfortunately, all the victims had been taken to Kinabatangan Hospital by members of the public before the firemen arrived,” the JBPM statement said.

Swift Response by Firefighters and Hazmat Personnel

A team of firefighters and Hazardous Materials Unit (Hazmat) personnel were dispatched to the scene, located 45 kilometres from the nearest fire station. Upon arrival, the personnel cordoned off the area and set up barriers to contain the danger. The operation concluded at 6:40 pm.

Outcome of the Incident

Eight of the victims have been discharged from the hospital’s emergency unit, while one remains under treatment but is reportedly in stable condition.

Conclusion

This incident highlights the importance of proper safety protocols in plantations. Plantation owners and managers must ensure that workers are equipped with the necessary protective gear and receive proper training on handling hazardous substances. It is also crucial that emergency services are quickly alerted in the event of an incident to provide timely and effective assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Carbosulfan UN3077?

A: Carbosulfan UN3077 is a pesticide used to control pests and diseases in oil palm plantations.

Q: How did the incident occur?

A: The exact cause of the incident is not clear, but it is suspected that the workers inhaled the pesticide fumes while fertilizing the oil palm trees.

Q: What measures can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future?

A: Plantation owners and managers can take several measures to prevent similar incidents, including providing workers with proper training on handling hazardous substances, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary protective gear, and establishing emergency response protocols in case of an incident.