Pest controllers found dead at Norfolk poultry factory following 'chemical spill'

Two pest controllers have been found dead at a factory in Norfolk following a suspected chemical spill.

An investigation has been launched after the exterminators, one in his 30s and the other in his 40s, were found close to the processing centre.

Norfolk Constabulary said no one else was injured.

Emergency services were called to the Banham Poultry plant in Attleborough in the early hours of Thursday.

A spokesman for the Eastern Ambulance Service said two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, three hazardous area response teams and an air ambulance were sent to the factory.

“Despite the best efforts of all involved, two men died at the scene,” he said.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and police have launched an investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Stu Chapman said.

“On behalf of Norfolk Police and other emergency services, I offer my condolences to the friends and families of the men killed in this incident and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time,” he said.

“Colleagues from Norfolk Fire Service continue to make the scene safe so that detailed investigations can begin between police, fire and the HSE to understand the circumstances that lead to the men’s deaths.”

A spokesperson from Banham Poultry said: “We are deeply saddened and send our deepest condolences to their family and friends.

"We are working closely with the police and health and safety authorities to determine what happened, and are also conducting our own internal investigation.”

Train operator Greater Anglia tweeted at about 7.30am that trains would not be stopping at Attleborough station, which is immediately next to the factory, due to the alleged spill.

It posted: “Due to a chemical spillage, train services will not be calling at Attleborough, towards Cambridge direction. Services will be stopping in the Norwich direction.”

It added: “Emergency services are in the area dealing with the spillage.”

George Freeman, MP for Mid Norfolk, tweeted: “Terrible news this morning of two deaths from what is reported as an industrial chemical spill in Attleborough.

“Thoughts and prayers with all those affected. And with the employees of BanhamPoultryUK at this v difficult time.”

He thanked all the emergency services that had worked through the night to secure the area.