MWE Correspondent
A dozen workers at a parcel sorting center in southern Germany were rushed to medical facilities after being exposed to a suspicious white powder on Thursday, raising concerns about chemical safety in logistics operations.
The incident occurred in Langenzenn, a town located near Nuremberg in the Bavaria region, when staff at a distribution center came into contact with a powdery substance that caused immediate and severe skin irritation.
Initial findings from emergency responders and police indicate that the substance was a chemical known as Phoron, which has properties similar to acetone and can cause acute irritation if mishandled. Though the name “Phoron” is also used in biological taxonomy, in this context it refers to an industrial-grade compound used in manufacturing and cleaning solvents.
The German fire brigade and hazmat units responded swiftly to the scene, establishing a quarantine zone around the facility. Several workers were treated on-site, while others were transported to nearby hospitals for observation and decontamination.
A spokesperson for the logistics firm operating the facility confirmed that emergency procedures were activated immediately after symptoms appeared.
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The company stated it was working closely with the Bavarian State Police to trace the package’s origin and determine how the chemical ended up in the distribution stream.
Police emphasized that while the incident was serious, there is “no immediate threat to the general public.” Investigators are now examining whether the powder was introduced accidentally or maliciously, raising questions about supply chain security in Europe’s logistics network.
The injuries, while not life-threatening, included rashes, respiratory discomfort, and eye irritation — symptoms commonly associated with chemical exposure. Medical officials say all affected staff are expected to make a full recovery.
In recent years, Germany has faced sporadic incidents involving suspicious packages, including scares related to anthrax threats, which turned out to be hoaxes. However, Thursday’s episode has reignited conversations around enhanced screening protocols for parcels moving through automated distribution centers.
