top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon
Explore
arrow down

Police investigate smelly gas leak

Criminal and administrative investigations aim to get to the bottom of discharges of gas still affecting a wide area

A CRIMINAL investigation is under way in relation to the leak of smelly gas from a Rouen plant that has caused alarm all the way to Paris – and even some parts of the southern UK.

The problems started at chemical firm Lubrizol, which admitted to “instability” having developed in one of its products. The gas being given off is ethyl mercaptan, commonly added to odourless natural gas to make it detectable.

Though the authorities insist the gas is not a health hazard, it can be dangerous if inhaled in strong concentrations.

An investigation on suspicion of “putting people’s lives in danger” has been launched by the gendarmerie. It will be checking to see if a crime may have occurred.

This morning Ecology Minister Delphine Batho said on Europe 1 radio that “there was doubtless some negligence or fault” involved; an administrative enquiry will also be held, she said.

Lubrizol is trying to stabilise the chemical but the minister said less than a tonne of material had been treated out of 36, so the incident would take “a certain time” to resolve. However she added it was under control and measures had been taken to make sure people were not affected by toxic concentrations of gas.

She reaffirmed that there was no “danger”, though she said there had been a small number of reports of “light” effects, like “discomfort, headaches and vomiting”.

People affected can call the prefecture for more information on 02 32 76 55 66.

Previous story: Smelly gas from Rouen to Paris

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Income Tax in France 2023 (for 2022 income)*
Featured Help Guide
- Primarily aimed at Britons, covers pensions, rent, ISAs, shares, savings and interest - but also contains significant general information pertinent to readers of other nationalities - Overview of online declarations + step-by-step guide to the French printed forms - Includes updates given automatically after this year's site opened
Get news, views and information from France