A cloud of chlorine gas created by anaccidental chemical reaction injured 39 workers at a German factoryTuesday, fire brigades near Cologne said according to dpa. Seven workers were in critical condition in hospital afterinhaling the gas at a lock factory in Bruehl. A fire chief said the gas attacks the lung lining. "In veryserious cases, you get a fluid buildup that can be fatal," he said. Police said human error was to blame for a chlorine bleach, whichis used to clean the cylinder-locks before they are electroplated,being mixed with 200 litres of hydrochloric acid. The reaction gaveoff the gas. Nearly 300 staff were evacuated from the site, but most resumedwork after the emergency.
