Residents near the River Taff in South Wales are seeking answers following a significant kerosene leak from a GE Aerospace site that has contaminated the waterway. The breach, which involved thousands of litres of kerosene, was first reported by the public on Friday, October 16. Authorities have advised locals to keep windows and doors shut due to strong chemical odours.
Incident Overview
The leak was identified after residents reported a strong smell coming from the river. Natural Resources Wales (NRW) officials quickly responded, working alongside the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to contain the spill using absorbent mats and booms. The affected area spans approximately four kilometres of the river.
GE Aerospace, an American multinational company, operates one of the largest maintenance and repair facilities for commercial aircraft engines in South Wales, employing over 1,350 people. In 2017, the company received £5 million in funding from the Welsh government to support innovation in the aerospace sector.
Health and Safety Concerns
Despite initial estimates suggesting that around 25,000 litres of kerosene may have spilled, NRW has not confirmed the exact quantity. The agency is currently investigating the incident and has not commented on potential enforcement actions. Public Health Wales has warned the community to avoid contact with contaminated areas along the river, which is popular for recreational activities.
Residents have reported experiencing health issues, including sinus problems and headaches. A spokesperson from Public Health Wales stated:
“"Kerosene vapours may be mildly irritating to the respiratory system. Our current assessment is that people who can smell kerosene may experience temporary irritation, particularly if they are exposed for prolonged periods."
