Chemical gas leak during class at the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering
This morning (Monday 24 March), a chemical gas leak occurred during a class at the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering. A lecturer and a group of students were evacuated from the classroom. The lecturer received medical attention on site. No one has been seriously injured.
15:00 update:
Police and fire services have reopened Hangøvej 2. Students and staff may enter the building to collect their personal belongings.
The police encourage any students and staff who experience symptoms or who feel unwell to contact the emergency medical services.
A debrief has been scheduled for tomorrow (Tuesday 25 March) for the affected staff and students to follow up on the incident.
13:00 update:
Emergency responders are still present at Aarhus University’s premises on Hangøvej 2, following the chemical leak earlier today.
The incident happened during a class: the lecturer mixed two chemicals in a lab flask, which then exploded. A strong smell of sulphur spread through the room. The lecturer evacuated the students but began feeling unwell. Two students helped the lecturer outside, after which the emergency alarm was activated.
Paramedics treated the lecturer on site before transporting them to hospital for further examination. The students involved have been examined, and their clothes have been washed down as a precaution. No one else has reported symptoms.
The building is now being ventilated, and it is expected that the lecturer and students will be able to return around 14:30.
Police have closed off Hangøvej but expect to reopen it soon.
The Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering will conduct an internal review of the incident to determine whether any safety procedures and guidelines need to be updated.
Contact:
Head of Department Lars Ditlev Mørck Ottosen: 51 37 16 71