Hundreds evacuated after acid leak at Coca-Cola factory as firefighters launch urgent air tests

HUNDREDS of Coca-Cola workers have been evacuated from their factory following an acid leak.

Around 200 people had left as firefighters rushed to the scene last night.

The hydrochloric acid leak was isolated at the plant in Sidcup, South East London, around three hours later.

There were no reported injuries.

London Fire Brigade said: "London firefighters dealt with a chemical incident at a factory on Cray Road in Sidcup.

"There was a leak of hydrochloric acid at the plant. It was isolated at around 2330.

"Firefighters remained at the scene throughout the night taking readings of chemicals in the air.

"Around 200 people evacuated the building before the Brigade arrived. There are no reports of any injuries.

"The Brigade was called at 20.39 and the incident was handed over to onsite management at 05.26."

A spokesperson for Coca-Cola Europacific Partners said: "Our production site at Sidcup was temporarily evacuated last night as a precautionary measure.

"There was no risk to any of our colleagues and the issue has now been resolved.

"Our site is now back operating as normal. We would like to thank the emergency services for their swift response and support, and would like to apologise to local residents for any disruption caused overnight."