At least eleven people were injured on Monday following an ammonia gas leak at the Aqaba industrial complex in southern Jordan, according to information reported by the Jordanian channel Al Mamlaka, citing a Jordanian official.
The leak occurred while maintenance operations were underway within the industrial complex. According to the official cited by the channel, the specialized teams intervened quickly and were able to contain the leak.
As a precaution, the Jordanian public television also announced the evacuation of Aqaba’s southern port. The competent authorities deployed their teams to the scene to manage the incident and take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of workers and people present in the area.
A gas used in several industrial sectors
Ammonia is a colorless chemical gas recognizable by its particularly strong and irritating odor. It is widely used in the manufacture of fertilizers and chemicals, but also in certain refrigeration systems and various industrial processes.
Exposure to high concentrations of ammonia can pose significant health risks. Inhalation of the gas can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, as well as coughing and breathing difficulties. In cases of severe exposure, it can lead to serious damage to the respiratory system.
The Jordanian authorities continued their operations at the site to secure the area and assess the consequences of the incident.
