Probe into factory wall collapse

Firefighters had to mop up copper sulphate

Investigations are under way after a wall collapsed at a chemical plant near Glasgow.

Strathclyde Fire Brigade were called to Bardykes Chemicals in Hamilton Road, Cambuslang, shortly after 0300 BST.

As well as the 48ft wall, the roof of a small extension collapsed, while the main building was also damaged.

It had been thought an explosion was to blame, but that has been discounted. No-one was injured and the Health and Safety Executive has been informed.

Firefighters called out to the collapse had to mop up a quantity of copper sulphate.

No-one was involved and I can't describe my relief in that respect Duncan Norman Bardyke Chemicals

Duncan Norman, managing director of Bardyke Chemicals, said the cause appears to have been wear and tear.

Mr Norman said: "This was a very serious incident.

"A wall on the compression house and electricity switch house collapsed due to corrosion of a structural member. It was a slow and gradual process.

"No-one was involved and I can't describe my relief in that respect."

Mr Norman said a structural engineer had assessed the damage to the 48ft by 10ft compression house, which is connected to the main area of the plant.

The company has been based at the plant since it was founded in 1968 and employs 17 staff.

Mr Norman said the workforce had been contacted and informed they should return to work on Monday.