Several people treated after chemical spill in maternity unit

Several fire engines and a decontamination unit were sent to the scene

Several people were treated in a hospital's emergency department after an "accidental spillage of cleaning fluids" in its maternity unit, an NHS Trust said.

Fire crews were called earlier to the women's and children’s services building at Watford General Hospital.

West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said it had not been necessary to evacuate wards and there was no disruption to the accident and emergency department.

It said the incident had been "formally stood down" and its midwifery, maternity, paediatric and ophthalmology services were running as usual.

A police cordon was put in place at Watford General on Thursday

A spokesman for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said several fire engines and a decontamination unit were sent to the scene.

Crews wore breathing apparatus to clear the spillage and to make the area safe.

'Prompt actions'

The hospital trust apologised to patients and visitors for any disruption.

It thanked Hertfordshire Constabulary and the fire service for its "prompt actions".

It also thanked its staff who "supported our services during the incident".