Fatal Incident at Sicilian Sewage Treatment Plant Claims Five Lives

A tragic incident unfolded at a sewage treatment plant near Palermo, Sicily, on May 6, resulting in the death of five workers due to toxic gas poisoning. Additionally, one worker was found unconscious and remains hospitalized in critical condition.

Emergency responders were alerted to the scene at Casteldaccia, located approximately 12 miles (20 km) from Palermo, during the early afternoon. Fire officials confirmed the recovery of five bodies at the site, with one individual immediately transported to the hospital. Fortunately, another worker escaped unharmed and promptly contacted authorities for assistance.

The regional company overseeing the treatment plant, AMAP, has refrained from disclosing specific details surrounding the incident. However, a company spokesperson extended condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. The workers were reportedly inside a confined underground tank measuring five square meters at the time of the accident.

Media reports have highlighted that the workers were found without protective masks against toxic fumes, prompting concerns about inadequate safety measures within the facility.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took to social media, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into the incident, stating, “full light must be shed on this tragedy.” This accident is the most recent in a series of workplace fatalities across Italy, notably including an explosion at a hydroelectric power plant near Bologna in April that claimed seven lives. These incidents have sparked outrage among workers and unions, advocating for improved safety standards and conditions.

Image credit: TP24