The Selangor government today disclosed that the six deaths in Tanjung Karang last week was not due to inhalation of ammonia gas, but from poisonous gases released from decomposing fish.

According to a preliminary report, "it is highly probable that the accident was caused by the victims inhaling poisonous gases like hydrogen sulfide or other toxic gases released by rotting fish."

The report states that hydrogen sulfide is a common by product of decomposing fish. Initial tests confirmed high concentration of the poisonous gas in all the fish tanks at a fertiliser production facility.

It is stated in the report that there was a high probablity that the refrigeration system had been turned off overnight before the deadly accident causing a build-up of the gas.

‘No ammonia found'

State exco member Ean Yong Hian Wah told reporters that no ammonia was in fact found in the refrigerator which was said to have leaked the poisonous gas that killed the six men.

He confirmed that "the gas used in the in the refrigeration system is chlorodifluoromethane (R22), which is not categorised as a toxic gas."

Ean Yong also revealed that "there were no indications of a leak. Tests show that the entire system maintained average pressure of 90psi to 110psi."

The investigations were carried out by the Selangor's Department of Occupational Safety & Health (Dosh) in cooperation with its headquarters in Putrajaya.

It was reported last Tuesday that the four locals and two Bangladeshis died after inhaling ammonia gas believed to be from a leaked refrigerator.

The police had said that the two foreign workers were unloading fish from one of the four tanks which were to be processed into fertiliser when suddenly they fell unconscious into the tank, which is about 2.43 metres high at 8.00am.

The other four rushed to to help but were overcome by the gas as well.

Gov't extends aid

Following the accident, the state government carried out an investigation. According to Ean Yong, a detailed report will be released in a week.

The Seri Kembangan assemblyperson also said that the state government will meet the fishermen and factory operators to discuss health and safety issues.

"We will also prepare leaflets about safety to distribute to the people," he added.

When asked about safeguards to prevent the similar incidents from happening, Ean Yong responded: "We will monitor private jetties and fish storage facilities. We will also consult with Dosh about appropriate safety precautions to be taken by factory operators and the state in order to prevent and handle incidents of this type."

Ean Yong also added that to show compassion, "the Selangor government has extended RM2,000 in aid to each affected family. We will also help them to obtain help from the Welfare Department. The village head has also been instructed to provide assistance."