Long Eaton health club boss issues new message after customers exposed to 'excess chlorine'
The owners of a Long Eaton health club where customers were evacuated after being exposed to 'excess chlorine' say they have been allowed to safely reopen the pool and spa. Three people were taken to hospital after the incident at Clifford Health Club, in Regent Street, on Tuesday (January 7).
An investigation was launched by Erewash Borough Council after 27 people showed symptoms relating to chlorine exposure. Ten people were treated at the scene while three people were taken to hospital as a precaution.
The owners of the health club said that they were able to reopen the pool and spa on Thursday (January 9), 48 hours after the incident. In a statement on Facebook, owner Mark Clifford said: "Apologies for the extra day closing, but as you may appreciate we wanted to make sure everything was in order - even though the emergency services were happy with us to reopen shortly after the incident.
"I can confirm that we are in touch with those affected by the incident and we will continue with this where we can. Over the last 18 years of trading as a family business, health and safety has been at the forefront of mine and the team’s mind.
"We have invested hundreds of thousands of pounds over the years in health and safety managers, operation managers, consultants, staff training, procedures and safety systems because the wellbeing of the public and staff is of paramount importance to me, and always will be.
"Over the last couple of days, we have reviewed all our procedures and policies. Our health and safety managers and external pool plant consultants have retested all our systems and staff on their competency.
"The outside relevant contractors and consultants have told us to reopen as the very rare issue that caused the incident has been resolved. We have of course been in contact with all the relevant authorities and are able to reopen with confidence and certainty that we are safe."