The exercise simulated the partial rupture of a methanol pipeline at the facility's formaldehyde plants, causing a toxic leak. The company Ercros evacuated its workers to a safe zone and activated its intervention teams, notifying the 112 emergency number, the CECAT, and the Alarm Reception Centre (CRA) of the Tortosa City Council. Facility sirens were activated, foam cannons deployed, and screens opened to prevent the toxic cloud from spreading towards the nearby inhabited area. Non-essential personnel were also evacuated, and five people were simulated as injured, one missing, to test the worker counter at the entrance.
The Operational Coordination Centre of Catalonia (CECAT) activated the Special External Emergency Plan for the Chemical Sector (PLASEQCAT), as Ercros is subject to Seveso regulations for hazardous substances. CECAT coordinated notifications with operational bodies, the Tortosa City Council, and other affected entities.
Approximately twenty firefighters from the Generalitat (Tortosa, Ulldecona, Amposta, and Benifallet), along with personnel from the Support Operational Group (GROS) and the Technological Risks Group (GRIT), participated. Firefighters conducted rescue and salvage operations, transferred casualties to the Medical Emergency System (SEM), established an advanced command post (CCA), controlled and sealed the leak, contained the spill with foam, and protected drains. They also monitored fire risk with a thermal camera and reassessed the scenario based on wind conditions.
The SEM received the alert at 10:30 AM via 112 and mobilized several units. After triaging patients by severity, approximately fifty affected individuals were treated and transported. The SEM deployed 13 professionals and 6 ground units (2 Basic Life Support, 1 Advanced Life Support, UIS, command vehicle, and an Operational Support Unit).
The Mossos d’Esquadra integrated into the CCA, ensuring security and assisting with evacuations. The Local Police of Tortosa also joined the CCA, coordinating with the Mossos. The Territorial Civil Protection Unit in Terres de l’Ebre deployed 2 technicians to the CCA as logistics group leaders for PLASEQCAT, ensuring information flow to CECAT and coordination among participants.
