A major fire occurred at the BAE Systems nuclear submarine shipyard in the early hours of Wednesday morning, leading to two people being hospitalised due to smoke inhalation. Emergency services rushed to the scene at 00:44 GMT. The hospitalised individuals were reportedly released from treatment shortly afterwards. BAE Systems said all employees had been accounted for and there was no nuclear risk. The incident is still being investigated and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
The Barrow-in-Furness shipyard is vital to the UK’s military defence, with nuclear submarines being built there. The facility is the only place in the country where submarines can be constructed. The cause of the fire is still unknown, however, BAE Systems stated that the event was “significant”, highlighting the severity of the incident. The company has also emphasised that safety measures at the site are regularly reviewed and updated, and that all necessary precautions are taken to prevent this sort of accident occurring.
Cumbria Police responded quickly to the incident, working alongside a number of emergency services such as fire and ambulance services. The danger to staff and the surrounding community was swiftly eliminated. From initial reports, it appears that the event was isolated, with no wider threat to the public. Investigations are ongoing, and although the situation was brought under control quickly, such a dramatic event will no doubt have far-reaching consequences for BAE Systems and the Barrow-in-Furness community in the UK
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