Investigation Underway After Fatal Gas Leak at Vietnam Industrial Plant

A chemical incident at a Vietnamese factory has left one worker dead and several others hospitalized, prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities.

Incident Details
On the morning of April 12, a hazardous gas leak occurred at Zinc Oxide Corporation Vietnam, located in Phu My 3 Industrial Park, Phu My City, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province. Around 9:45 a.m., during a chemical transfer operation in the IZO pumping area, sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) gas is believed to have leaked while being pumped from a tanker truck—operated by contractor N.X.T.—into the company’s storage tank. The exposure to toxic fumes resulted in an immediate medical emergency.

Immediate Impact
During the procedure, two company employees, T.V.D., a deputy team leader in mechanical maintenance, and D.T.S., a production staff member, were found unconscious. Nearby workers pulled them from the area and administered first aid before both were taken to a private clinic.

Medical Response
Sadly, T.V.D. was later pronounced dead. D.T.S. regained consciousness and was transferred to Ba Ria Hospital for further observation. In addition to the two affected employees, 39 others were taken to a hospital for precautionary health checks. This group included 25 company employees, 13 subcontractor workers, and one supplier representative. All were discharged later that same afternoon.

Emergency Measures Taken
Following the discovery of the unconscious workers, the chemical truck driver promptly shut down the pumping system. Simultaneously, the plant’s control center (DCS) sealed all valves connected to the chemical tank to isolate the area and prevent further exposure.

Company’s Response
Zinc Oxide Corporation Vietnam has provided immediate financial support to the family of the deceased worker. The company has also stated it will comply with legal obligations regarding additional compensation, pending the outcome of the investigation.

Ongoing Investigation
The Ba Ria – Vung Tau Provincial Police, in cooperation with relevant agencies, are currently investigating the cause of the incident.

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