AGERE reports that, at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Monday, during a routine waste collection operation in the vicinity of the Frossos Industrial Park, a collection vehicle was involved in an incident following the release of vapours from the waste being transported.
The vehicle's built-in safety system automatically halted the compaction mechanism, and safety protocols were immediately activated. As a precautionary measure, three AGERE employees were taken to Braga Hospital, where they were assessed and classified as having sustained minor injuries.
At the scene were Nuno Osório, Commander of the Braga Professional Fire Brigade, several members of the Braga Professional Fire Brigade, the National Republican Guard (GNR), and Civil Protection personnel, who coordinated the operational response and assessed the safety conditions together with AGERE's safety technicians. The GNR carried out the necessary investigative procedures to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
AGERE's Chairman of the Board of Directors, João Granja, also attended the scene to monitor the situation.
Initial indications suggest that a chemical substance incompatible with mixed municipal waste may have been improperly disposed of, potentially triggering the reaction observed.
AGERE will cooperate fully with the competent authorities in establishing the facts.
Safety Begins with Proper Waste Disposal
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper waste disposal. Placing chemical substances or other hazardous materials in containers intended for mixed municipal waste poses a risk to waste collection workers, emergency responders, the public, and the environment.
João Granja praised the effective coordination between all the entities involved, with particular recognition for AGERE's professionals.
"The three AGERE employees have now been discharged from hospital, but what happened today demonstrates that an apparently simple act can have serious consequences for those who provide an essential service to the community every day. We urge both businesses and citizens to use the appropriate disposal channels for this type of waste. The safety of our employees and of the wider community begins with the responsibility of each and every one of us," said João Granja, Chairman of AGERE's Board of Directors., afirma João Granja, Presidente do Conselho de Administração da AGERE.
AGERE will continue to cooperate with the authorities in investigating this incident and will reinforce awareness-raising initiatives on proper waste disposal, promoting a culture of prevention and safety for the benefit of the entire community.