London CHEMICAL LEAK: Police race to scene after explosion at chemical plant in Enfield
LONDON police and fire crews have raced to the scene of a chemical incident at the Brimsdown industrial estate in Enfield.
The Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade were scrambled to the Johnson Matthey chemical plant on Riverside Walk after a reported explosion.
Around 5,000 litres of toxic iron sulphate solution leaked following the blast, covering an area of around 200-square metres.
Iron sulphate can cause irritation to the eyes and skin, and is dangerous for humans to breathe.
A spokeswoman for the fire brigade said around 40 people had been evacuated, but this was denied by Scotland Yard.
A quantity of iron sulphate is believed to have been released
A 25-metre cordon has been set up near the site of the explosion as officials try to get the situation under control.
A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "Police were called at 4:46pm following reports of an explosion at the Johnson Matthey chemical plant in the Brimsdown business area in Enfield.
"Police are in attendance with London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service colleagues. Cordons are in place.
"A quantity of iron sulphate is believed to have been released. The Environment Agency are aware and advising residents.
"At this stage there have been no reported casualties. There have been no evacuations."
The London Fire Brigade said: "The LFB is attending the scene of a chemical incident on Riverside Walk in Enfield.
"An estimated 5,000 litres of suspected iron sulphate solution has seaped out within a site, affecting approximately 200 square metres."
Express.co.uk has contacted the Environment Agency for comment.