At least 10 people have been taken to hospital in a suspected carbon monoxide poisoning incident at a food processing plant in Cornwall.
People working in the vegetable packing area at Riviera Produce at Connor Downs began to complain of “feeling unwell” at about noon.
So far 17 have been taken ill including two ambulance staff.
An ambulance spokesperson said the number of casualties could rise as more employees are checked over.
The casualties have been taken to the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro.
Vomiting and confusion
The company said the poisoning might be linked to a forklift truck at the plant.
Managing Director David Simmons said tests were being carried out on the truck but the cause was not yet known.
Inhaling carbon monoxide, which is colourless and odourless, reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen and can be fatal.
Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting and confusion.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using a gas detector at the plant which has been evacuated.
About 40 people are normally employed there.