Faulty forklift blamed for CO leak

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) - Two people were transported to a hospital as a precaution after a reported carbon monoxide leak at a Hampton business Tuesday morning

Capt. Anthony Chittum with the Hampton Division of Fire and Rescue said units arrived on scene at Sam Rust Seafood in the 600 block of Regional Drive just after 9 a.m. The building was evacuated along with 60 employees as a precaution.

According to Chittum, two people were transported to the hospital for headaches, nausea and elevated carbon monoxide levels. Chittum explained carbon monoxide binds with the hemoglobin and does not allow them to take oxygen in.

The level of CO in the patients was not high and dangerous, Chittum said. Two other patients refused transport at the scene.

Chittum said the leak was caused by a faulty propane forklift. The carbon monoxide was removed from the building and all employees were allowed back inside around noon.