NADMO issues safety guidelines after chlorine gas leak at Central Region water plant

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued urgent safety guidelines for residents near the Baifikrom Water Treatment Plant following a confirmed chlorine gas leak at the facility.

The leak, which was detected by technical teams at the plant in the Central Region, prompted the immediate activation of emergency protocols due to the potential health risks associated with the chemical, which is widely used in water purification.

Multiple state agencies, including the Ghana Water Company Limited, the Ghana National Fire Service, and the Ghana Health Service, are working alongside NADMO to assess the situation, contain the leak, and alert nearby communities.

Authorities are urging the public to strictly follow safety instructions. Officials warn that chlorine gas is highly toxic when inhaled. Residents who detect a strong bleach-like smell—a key indicator of the gas—are advised to immediately move away from the area.

Because chlorine gas is heavier than air, people are instructed to avoid low-lying areas such as trenches and basements where the gas can accumulate. Instead, residents should move to higher ground or travel in the opposite direction of the wind to reduce the risk of inhalation.

The Ghana Health Service has cautioned that exposure to chlorine gas can cause coughing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, eye and skin irritation. Prolonged exposure may lead to serious respiratory damage.

Emergency response teams remain on-site to monitor the situation and fully contain the leak, with medical personnel on standby. Authorities have called for calm while investigations continue into the cause of the incident.

The Baifikrom plant is a critical facility for supplying potable water to surrounding communities. Officials have assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to secure the facility and prevent further leakage.