According to the Public Services Association there has been a constant leak of noxious fumes from a Newcastle office building for years and the source needs to be identified. The building has RTA call centre staff and Commonwealth Bank customer service representatives as its tenants.
The building in Argyle Street was evacuated twice and 28 people needed treatment after they suffered from mild breathing problems this week. Nearly 250 people were evacuated on Tuesday morning after reports of chemical odors. They were allowed to return but were evacuated again about 3.30pm (AEST) when a second chemical smell was reported.
Ian Krimmer, NSW Fire Brigades Superintendent revealed that the initial smell was from a leak in the air-conditioning unit and the problem was addressed. However the second incidence was a different smell and emergency crews are working to determine the source. "Consultants have been engaged to undertake further testing on the building," a spokeswoman said.
According to the union there have been up to six times in the last four years and Union spokesman Evan Cole says it is concerned for the workers' health. He said, "In the short term the members will have to guided by what the fire brigade rules out or rules in, in terms of the cause…I know at least one previous evacuation was put down to paint thinner fumes being used near an air conditioner. But the PSA will have to work with the RTA and probably with the building owner as well to find out exactly what the cause is of these fumes."