In brief
Ten workers were taken to hospital after developing headaches and nausea at a demolition site in northern Japan on Friday. Xinhua reports that a high‑pressure washer may have emitted carbon monoxide, prompting a local fire department investigation. All victims remain conscious, with some requiring assistance to move.
Ten workers were taken to hospital after developing headaches and nausea at a demolition site in Hakodate City, Hokkaido, on Friday, Xinhua reported, saying that suspected carbon monoxide poisoning could be the cause.
Xinhua notes that emergency services first received a report at about 9:05 a.m. local time from the Hakodate Fire Department, describing several people falling ill while carrying out interior work at the site.
According to the fire department, the injured men and women ranged in age from teenagers to the 60s, all remained conscious, but some were unable to move without assistance.
Fire authorities have blamed an engine‑powered high‑pressure washer that was believed to be in use at the site, and they are investigating whether it produced the suspected carbon monoxide.
Local investigators continue to look into the incident’s cause while the victims receive treatment.
