A MAN was tragically found dead in the street after being exposed to a ‘chemical spill’.
Emergency services responded to calls from Douglas Avenue in Billinge, near Wigan, on Saturday morning.
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A man was found dead in the street after being exposed to a cleaning chemical Credit: Google Maps
Paramedics performed CPR on the man in his 50s before he was pronounced dead in the street.
Paramedics in hazmat suits from the Hazardous Area Emergency Response Team were also at the scene along with several detectives.
The air ambulance arrived shortly before 10 a.m. and left about two hours later.
A spokesman for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service confirmed they also attended to assist North West Ambulance Service.
The man was found to have died after being exposed to the chemical xylene.
Xylene can be used as a cleaning agent as well as a paint and varnish thinner.
Limited exposure can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, while longer exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness and heart problems.
Emergency crews investigated a work van outside the property for a possible chemical spill.
The vehicle was declared safe shortly thereafter.
A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: “We can confirm that emergency services received a report this morning (Saturday, September 28) of concerns for the safety of a man in Billinge.”
“At around 10.20am, officers were called to Douglas Avenue to reports that a man in his 50s had suffered a cardiac arrest.
“The doctors came and unfortunately he was pronounced dead at the scene.
“The man’s death is not being treated as suspicious and his next of kin have been informed.”
xylene
XYLENE is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sweet smell that is used as a solvent and degreaser in many industries.
The chemical is used in the printing, rubber and leather industries as a solvent and as a thinner for paints and varnishes.
It is also used as a cleaning agent and in pesticide products.
Xylene can be absorbed through the skin and respiratory tract. Exposure can cause a number of health problems.
Short term: eye, nose and throat irritation, gastrointestinal effects and neurological effects.
Long-term: Headaches, dizziness, fatigue, tremors, incoordination, respiratory, cardiovascular and renal effects.
In order to avoid occupational health problems, the use of impermeable gloves and masks is recommended, along with respirators where appropriate.
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Source: HIS Education