Emergency services take casualty to hospital after incident involving acid at food manufacturing firm

Emergency services were called to AB World Foods, on Kiribati Way, Leigh, shortly after 1.05am on Saturday.

Firefighters, including hazardous materials officers, police officers and paramedics all attended to deal with an incident involving acid.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “Shortly after 1.05am this morning, two fire engines from Leigh and Atherton fire stations, along with a hazardous materials officer, were called to an incident involving acetic acid at a commercial property on Kiribati Way, Leigh.

“Crews arrived quickly and worked alongside Greater Manchester Police to make the area safe. One casualty was conveyed to hospital by North West Ambulance Service.

“Firefighters departed after approximately an hour at the scene.”

AB World Foods is part of Associated British Foods, a major international manufacturer of branded grocery products that includes market-leading household names such as Patak’s, Blue Dragon and Reggae Reggae sauce.

A spokesperson for AB World Foods said: "We can confirm that first aid advice was sought last night after a colleague was accidentally splashed with a small amount of acetic acid, commonly used as a food preservative. They attended the local hospital A&E and were promptly discharged. They are now recovering well at home."