A cafe worker at the University of Manchester was taken to hospital after a scientist dropped a test tube containing a hazardous chemical on her head.
The 45-year-old woman was working at the Starbucks cafe in a university research centre when the accident happened yesterday.
It is understood a member of staff from Epistem, a drug testing firm based in the university’s biotechnology Incubator Building, was walking along an exposed upper level corridor carrying test tubes when one was dropped into the cafe area below.
The test tube, which contained the chemical TRIzol, smashed on her head.
The building was evacuated and the woman was taken to Manchester Royal Eye Hospital and then transferred to the Manchester Royal Infirmary. It is understood that her injuries were minor.
Three other people were treated in hospital for the effects of inhaling the chemical.
TRIzol, a chemical used for the extraction of DNA, is considered a serious health hazard and can be fatal through overexposure.
Mild exposure to skin can cause irritation and loss of sensation.
Specially-trained paramedics and fire crews were also called to the building on Grafton Street .
Officers from Moss Side and Manchester Central fire stations wore protective suits as they worked to isolate the spillage.
A spokesperson from Epistem – which tests drugs under development for diseases including cancer and Crohn's disease – said: "I can confirm that a minor accident took place this morning and happily I can confirm that there were no serious injuries."
A North West Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "A 45-year-old female was hit on the head by a test tube.
"She was walked to the Eye Hospital next door by ambulance staff. Three other people were treated at the MRI for inhalation."
The university declined to comment.
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Isn't that where The Chemical Brothers met?
This person needs sacking, the container should never have been allowed to be in a state where it could be dropped specially not in the way it has done so. What was the transport policy in place?
The method of transporting this substance as described is completely irresponsible. Check out the material safety data sheet (MSDS) and prepare to be shocked. This stuff is lethal if enough is spilled on you!
The university and the research company concerned should immediately implement a complete review of their procedures and put measures in place to prevent a recurrence. As for the victim, I hope she suffers no long term effects from this nasty experience.
It should have been transported in a bio hazard container but to my understanding,it is only effective if taken orally.
The company is legally responsible for failing to transport hazardous substances safely.
They will be dragged through court and rightly so.
Disgraceful and incompetent.
A draw-back on open-plan designed buildings and a lack of proper HSE regulation, it is self-regulation, like the banks. This chemical may of entered her bloodstream quicker than through ingestion, if the test-tube caused her any lacerations. Hopefully that is not the case and the victim has fully recovered.
wheres the HSE and wheres the risk assessment?????