Firefighters are still at the scene of a massive blaze involving 500 tonnes of shredded rubber on a Nottinghamshire industrial estate.
More than 50 firefighters and officers from fire stations across three counties are were called to a plastics plant on Sandy Lane, Worksop at 2.44pm on Tuesday (July 18).
Although the heart of the fire was under control by late afternoon, crews were still on site on Wednesday morning.
People living nearby and motorists driving through the smoke are still being asked to keep windows closed because of potential health risks from fumes.
A Public Health England East Midlands spokesman said: “Residents in areas affected by the smoke should stay indoors, keep their doors and windows closed, and tune in to the local radio station for advice and information.
“Motorists who have to travel through the smoke should keep windows closed, turn off air conditioning and keep their air vents closed.
Group Manager Chris Clark talks about the Fire at Worksop plastic manufacturer. Full statement on our website here: https://t.co/zXwRrJDHXJ pic.twitter.com/bSvPMN1POp
— Notts Fire (@nottsfire) July 18, 2017
“Concentrations of substances in smoke are often below those which pose an immediate risk to health, but may still result in discomfort or temporary health effects such as coughing or a tight chest. These symptoms usually disappear very soon and do not lead to any long term health problems. People with asthma should carry their inhaler, and if you have any concerns about your respiratory health please seek medical advice.
“So far, there have been no reports of any people experiencing ill effects from this fire. Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is on-site dealing with the fire and the other agencies involved will continue to monitor the situation and issue advice to the public, businesses and organisations affected as necessary.”
Sandy Lane is closed between the A57 roundabout and the football ground.
Station Manager Martin Bills said: “The fire involves a large amount of rubber, hence the thick black smoke that people can see for several miles around. Fortunately the fire is outside of the factory, which makes it easier for us to access, and our crews are working hard to contain it and stop it from spreading.
“We are working closely with our colleagues from Derbyshire and South Yorkshire fire and rescue services, Nottinghamshire Police, the Environment Agency and Public Health England, not only to fight the fire, but to keep people informed and safe.
“I would ask anyone who lives in the vicinity to keep their doors and windows closed and to avoid the area if at all possible. I’d like to thank people for their patience while we deal with the incident.”
Am investigation into the cause of the fire is expected to start once the incident is declared over.
