A MAJOR exercise has tested a joint emergency response to a chemical leak at a manufacturing plant in Grays.
‘Exercise Liffey’ yesterday (Tuesday, July 12) helped prepare Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and its emergency partners for an incident at a COMAH (control of major accident hazards) site.
The simulation involved Essex Police, East England of Ambulance Service, Environment Agency, Thurrock Council, Kent County Council, Health and Safety Executive, Port of London Authority and Public Health England.
The scenario involved a response to a chlorine leak and explosion at Industrial Chemicals Ltd in Grays. Two people were reported missing and there were concerns about the spread of toxic gases.
More than 15 firefighters responded to the emergency with a command centre set up in Park Inn Hotel in North Stifford, to plan a multi-agency response to the incident.
Assistant Divisional Officer Stephen Pritchard, the exercise organiser, said: “The simulation was a success and helped familiarise crews at the incident site with procedures at a top-tier COMAH site.
“The exercise also provided a great opportunity for the County’s emergency experts to test strategies and response to a major incident.
“We set up a worst case scenario that was extremely complicated to test for our firefighters and emergency planners under difficult circumstances.
“I would like to thank everyone for their enthusiasm and professionalism during the exercise. I would also like to thank Park Inn Hotel and Industrial Chemicals for allowing us to train at their sites.”
