Chemical incident at Poljud: Two children hospitalized

(Patria) - A chemical incident occurred at the Poljud swimming pools in Split today, resulting in two children being hospitalized due to breathing problems. According to information from the competent services, the problem arose from the evaporation of chemicals, not direct contact with the pool water.

Gordon Cerjan, director of the Public Institution Sports Facilities, explained that dangerous liquids did not get into the pool, but the incident occurred while rinsing a hose after the delivery of chlorine and a liquid for lowering pH.

"The employee who was performing this task, while rinsing the hose, caused a mixture of chlorine and acid, i.e., a chemical reaction. An intense smell spread through the ventilation system to other rooms and the pool. Because of this, we evacuated everyone and ventilated the pools to let all the air out," said Cerjan.

The Split Clinical Hospital Center announced that two children, aged 8 and 12, were hospitalized at the Clinic for Pediatric Diseases. The children were admitted due to the irritant effect of the gas and respiratory difficulties, and their medical treatment is ongoing.

A strong smell is still present at the scene, and employees have been instructed to stay outside and wear protective masks at the entrance. The incident raises questions about the procedures for handling dangerous chemicals and the safety of the ventilation system in sports facilities.