Ammonia Leak At Ice Factory Sends 36 To Hospital
A damaged ammonia pipe at an ice factory in Suphanburi province leaked July 8, sending 36 people to hospital including students and workers; authorities evacuated nearby schools and closed the valve to contain the hazard.
An ammonia leak occurred at an ice factory in Khao Phra subdistrict, Derm Bang Nang Buat district, Suphanburi province on July 8, 2026. The facility is located near schools and communities, prompting authorities to evacuate students and residents from the risk zone. A total of 36 people were taken to hospital, including 2 teachers, 1 local official, 10 students, 10 factory workers, 3 civilians, 3 disaster relief officers, and 6 municipal staff. They experienced eye irritation, nasal irritation, and chest tightness. Two nearby schools—Derm Bang Nang Buat Kindergarten (approximately 300 meters away) and Dhammachoti Education School (approximately 1,000 meters away)—evacuated students to safety.
Investigation revealed the leak stemmed from damaged ammonia piping that was scheduled for replacement. Factory management stated they conduct regular inspections of valves and piping, with safety equipment installed throughout the system to mitigate leakage risks. Authorities from the Pollution Control Department measured ammonia concentrations in the surrounding air to assess public health impacts. The valve was successfully closed and the situation returned to normal.
Industry Minister Weerawut Silpaarcha confirmed the ammonia leaked from a 120-ton ice production machine's storage tank during valve maintenance. He stated that while 36 people required hospitalization, the situation is now controlled. An investigation is ongoing to determine if any workplace violations occurred, with potential penalties including facility closure under factory law.
