Channel Tunnel workers suffer carbon monoxide poisoning while changing tracks
60 people were working in the tunnel overnight when the incident happened, one is in a serious condition
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Nineteen people working overnight in the Channel Tunnel have suffered carbon monoxide poisoning on the job, with one in a serious condition, French officials have said.
Around 60 workers were changing tracks on the line which connects Folkestone with Calais when the incident happened.
The seriously affected welder was diagnosed with carbon dioxide poisoning after being taken ill in the early hours of Sunday morning.
18 others, whose condition is not cause for great concern, were also taken to local French hospitals after becoming unwell to give them time to "remove the carbon monoxide from their system," an official said.
The remaining workers were sent home and an investigation has been launched.
John Keefe, director of public affairs at Eurotunnel Group, told Kent Online: "Detectors in the tunnel didn't show excess levels of carbon monoxide.
"A number of workers were taken into hospital for medical observation as a precaution and Eurotunnel is monitoring their condition carefully."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments