Firm inquiry over poisoning alert

An investigation is under way after workers at a West Yorkshire recycling firm were exposed to mercury.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said staff at Electrical Waste Recycling Co Ltd in Huddersfield had been put at risk of mercury poisoning.

Part of the firm's operations include removing mercury from fluorescent light tubes but it has been banned from doing this until the investigation concludes.

Staff have been given clean bills of health after medical checks.

The HSE said the company, formerly known as Matrix Direct, had voluntarily ceased working on the process.

Specialist cleaning

It said: "HSE has taken enforcement action to stop any further mercury recovery operations from fluorescent light tubes and to require decontamination within the factory premises.

"HSE's investigation involves both occupational health and occupational hygiene specialists.

"Most of the company's employees have already consulted with an occupational health practitioner, occupational hygienists are currently carrying out a risk assessment at the site and specialist cleaning of the unit and office facilities is under way."

All of the factory's 50 staff had been given clean bills of health after medical checks.

Company director Craig Thompson told the BBC: "Some of the points made are the subject of investigation by the authorities and it would therefore be inappropriate at this time for us to comment until those enquiries have been concluded.

"As an organisation we have cooperated with all of the government agencies involved and we will continue to do so."

Symptoms of mercury poisoning can include memory loss, mood instability, headaches and visual and hearing problems.

It can also damage the immune system and kidneys.