Three Workers Hospitalized After Inhaling Exhaust Fumes During Basement Pool Cleaning in New Taipei

According to reports from Central News Agency, a swimming pool cleaning operation was underway today in the basement of a building on Wenhua Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City. Three workers reportedly inhaled exhaust fumes while using a gasoline-powered high-pressure washer, likely due to poor ventilation in the underground area.

The New Taipei City Fire Department received the report around 9 a.m. and dispatched 10 vehicles and 21 personnel to the scene at a mixed-use building on Section 2, Wenhua Road. All three workers were conscious upon arrival and were subsequently transported to Far Eastern Memorial Hospital in Banqiao for medical treatment.

The precise cause of the incident is still being investigated by authorities. Concerns have been raised regarding workplace safety standards, particularly the use of fuel-powered equipment in poorly ventilated enclosed spaces. This incident highlights the critical importance of proper ventilation and occupational safety protocols in confined environments.

The report was filed by Central News Agency reporters Tsao Ya-yen and Huang Hsu-sheng, with editing by Lin Shu-hui. The incident occurred on June 18. Readers are encouraged to support press freedom and can download the 'First News' app for real-time updates. Unauthorized reproduction, broadcasting, or transmission of the content is prohibited.