Woman hospitalised following chlorine gas leak at Collie swimming pool, prompting WorkSafe investigation

A WorkSafe investigation has been launched following a chlorine gas leak at the Collie Mineworkers Memorial Pool which resulted in nine nearby residents being evacuated from their homes and one woman sent to hospital.

On Sunday March 16 at 7pm, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services received multiple triple zero calls alerting them to the incident.

Eight firefighter crews from the Collie Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, the Brunswick Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Bunbury Career Fire and Rescue Service were deployed at the scene.

A DFES spokesperson said upon the crews arrival, they removed a person from the premise who then received medical treatment.

The leak — which was coming from “a large cylinder containing chlorine” was contained and controlled by 3am.

A St John WA spokesperson said a woman in her 50’s was taken to Collie Hospital before being transferred to Fiona Stanley Hospital by 2am.

They said the patient was stable at all times during their attendance.

Shire of Collie president Ian Miffling told the Times on Monday he wasn’t sure what had caused the leak.

He said as a precaution, nine nearby residents were evacuated to the emergency centre at Roche Park Recreation Centre.

The community was urged to stay inside out of the smoke or fumes, with their doors and windows closed and their air conditioners shut off.

Mr Miffling said the parts of Throssell Street were closed down while firefighters responded to the incident and the Department of Community Services were alerted but ultimately not required.

“Any leakage of chlorine gas is of concern hence the quick action of all emergency services personnel to attend to the incident,” he said.

“The Shire is most appreciative of the actions of all emergency services personnel who did exactly what they are trained for, their prompt response was a timely reminder of how well they are regarded in their protection of the wider community.”

Mr Miffling thanked affected residents for responding well to the warnings and cooperating with the authorities.

“Of course, there will be a full investigation into the incident and any required actions will be implemented,” he said.