Hazmat warning sparked by release of potentially toxic plumes from Willyung business, man sent to hospital

A hazmat warning has been issued and a man rushed to hospital after a fire was sparked in potentially toxic materials and began releasing plumes of smoke at an Albany business on Wednesday morning.

Emergency services raced to a Willyung business about 10.30am after receiving reports of possibly toxic smoke plumes coming from the business on Copal Road near the intersection of Chester Pass Road and Menang Drive.

Seven appliances from Albany Fire and Rescue Service and Albany Volunteer Fire Rescue Service were sent to the scene.

A Department of Fire and Emergency Services spokesperson said bags containing the potentially toxic materials caught fire.

They said the blaze was controlled and crews were “letting it burn itself out”.

St John WA transported a man in his 40s under lights and sirens from the area to the Albany Health Campus.

Several roads were closed as result of the incident, including Chester Pass Road, Willyung Road, Rocky Crossing Road and Menang Drive.

A hazmat general warning was put in place for people in Willyung about 11.15am.

DFES reports the fire is now extinguished but off-gassing, meaning the release of gases, chemicals and volatile organic compounds into the air, continues.

Motorists were asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully.

Hazmat General Warning - HAZMAT FIRE in WILLYUNG in the CITY OF ALBANY

There is a HAZMAT FIRE at Willyung near the intersection of CHESTER PASS ROAD and MENANG DRIVE in the CITY OF ALBANY.

A HAZMAT fire at a business is resulting in potentially toxic plumes releasing in the area.

WHAT TO DO

• As a precautionary measure, people in the area should remain inside, out of the smoke or fumes, with doors and windows closed. Air conditioners should also be switched off.
• People should stay away from the area. If you are already in the area take advice from emergency services personnel.
• People with medical concerns should contact their local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222.