GEORGE, Southern Cape: A chemical incident on a farm north of Herold’s Bay, George, has left three workers dead and twelve others hospitalized.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, 13 October 2026.

According to reports, farm workers were engaged in cleaning operations inside a tank containing a mixture of chemicals, including phosphoric acid. Several workers were overcome by fumes, and others who rushed to assist were also affected.

Three men died at the scene. Twelve others were taken to hospital in George, with one in serious condition and eleven treated for minor exposure. 

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) said its firefighters applied chemical absorbents to neutralize the hazardous liquid, while George Municipality firefighters decontaminated the deceased before removal by Forensic Pathology Services.

Firefighters are expected to return on 14 October for a final round of decontamination and disinfection.

GRDM Executive Mayor Marais Kruger expressed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the three people who tragically lost their lives in the chemical-related incident. 

“Our thoughts are also with the twelve people who sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment, as well as everyone affected by this tragic event.”

The South African Police Service (SAPS) have opened a judicial inquest into the deaths. 

Officials have warned that chemical fumes remain dangerous until full neutralization. Residents should report hazardous material incidents to the GRDM Emergency Call Centre  on 044 805 5071 or via WhatsApp on 081 709 5193.