WORKERS at a Runcorn factory required hospital treatment after inhaling poisonous gas on Thursday morning.

A forklift truck driver at ASM Medicare on Picow Farm Road caused a chemical reaction when he mistakenly poured anti-freeze into the batteries of the vehicle, believing it to be distilled water.

The incident resulted in 17 workers having to be disrobed, hosed down and treated for breathing difficulties, nausea and sore eyes. Five were taken to Warrington Hospital for further attention.

The leak was contained within the building although the factory was closed down for three hours as a precaution and Picow Farm Road was closed between Penn Lane and Runcorn Dock Road.

Sub Officer Sean Henshaw, of Runcorn Fire Station, said: "The priority was to prevent any further injuries to employers or firefighters.

"As a result the crews set up a cordon around the site to prevent members of the public, staff and firefighters entering the premises.

"I would like to reassure the community that at no time did any of the gas leave the site."

Director of ASM Medicare Brian Guest said: "We have held an internal investigation and the matter has now been resolved."