Chemical incident at Guy's Hospital evacuates about 150 people

A chemical incident at Guys Hospital in central London prompted a swift evacuation of about 150 people from the basement and ground floor earlier today as emergency services worked to ventilate the building and secure the scene. The London Fire Brigade said specialist hazardous materials officers were on site alongside standard firefighting units, and the incident remains under investigation as officials coordinate ongoing response efforts.

Firefighters were called to the hospital in Southwark at 8:49 am. Crews from Whitechapel, Dowgate, Euston and surrounding stations have been involved, with two fire engines, two Fire Rescue Units and a Command Unit deployed to manage the situation. The brigade stated that operations are focused on ventilating the building to ensure air safety for patients, visitors and staff, and to prevent any further risk from fumes or a potential chemical release.

The evacuation covered the basement and ground floor levels, with hospital staff assisting in guiding patients and others to safety. Images and reports from the scene showed members of the public and medical personnel outside the hospital, with some patients being helped along walkways and street...