London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – A “significant fire” broke out at the BAE Systems nuclear submarine shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, causing two people to be taken to hospital.
Emergency services were called to the place, where the UK’s nuclear submarines are constructed. Those taken to hospital were expressed to be suffering from suspected smoke inhalation and have since been released, BAE confirmed, with everyone “accounted for”.
Is there any risk of nuclear contamination?
Cumbria Police stated there was “no nuclear risk”. An inquiry into the cause of the fire is underway. Police noted the Devonshire Dock Hall, the site’s main building facility, was vacated overnight. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) expressed it was working closely with BAE and the emergency services following the fire.
On 30 Oct 2024 morning, there was a metallic scent of smoke in the air and the doors of the concerned building remained open, with smoke cracks seen on the facility. Employees turning up for their shifts were baffled as to which parts of the site were available and whether or not they should go in.
What precautions are being taken after the incident?
BAE has informed non-essential attendants at Devonshire Dock Hall to not go to a job to work from home if feasible. All other teams have been told to attend as usual but to review the employee hotline if they need more details.
What advice is being given to residents?
Rescue Service said that 15 machines had been at the scene tackling the fire, which has since been smothered, and many “tired firefighters” were on their way home. People living nearby should keep their doors and windows shut. Drivers in the region have also been told to close their windows, air ducts and sunroofs, as well as to turn off fans and air conditioning units.