ports

Toxic Gas Incident Shuts Two Major Antwerp Container Terminals

A hydrofluoric acid leak from a container aboard the MSC Mia Summer II forced the Port of Antwerp to close two major facilities on July 14, disrupting European container operations. The incident at Deurganck dock resulted in 155 hospitalizations, with 127 sustaining minor injuries and 28 experiencing serious symptoms. One patient required intensive care. The MSC-PSA MEPT terminal and neighboring DP World Antwerp Gateway facility both ceased operations, affecting a substantial portion of the port's container handling capacity. Emergency responders implemented precautionary measures including closing Kieldrecht lock bridges, halting shipping traffic, and cordoning off the incident area. Hydrogen fluoride, a highly corrosive and toxic chemical in both gaseous and liquid states, poses significant occupational hazards. Shippers and freight forwarders should anticipate notable service delays as recovery and reopening timelines remain uncertain.