New details have emerged following the evacuation of UNSW’s Old Main Building due to a battery leak.
As previously reported, the building was evacuated at around 2:45 p.m. on April 13 after an alarm was triggered due to fumes from a suspected battery failure. The fire brigade was called shortly after, and occupants were cleared from the building for several hours.
According to an email seen by Gamamari, the incident was caused by a leaking and overheating lead-acid UPS battery located within the School of Physics.
The issue was first flagged after students reported an unusual odour over the weekend and was escalated to Estate Management on Monday.
The email confirmed that several hazardous gases were detected during the incident.
Carbon monoxide levels were measured at approximately 50 parts per million (ppm). The recommended safe level is 10 ppm.
Other potential byproducts of battery degradation were detected including hydrogen sulphide, sulphur dioxide, and sulfuric acid mist. These substances can pose respiratory and irritation risks, particularly in enclosed spaces.
The email noted that one security staff member reported exposure, and two additional individuals reported mild exposure symptoms. All reported exposures are being managed according to university health and safety protocols.
The fire brigade conducted a full assessment and ventilated the affected area. Control of the site has since been handed back to UNSW Emergency Management.
Environmental testing was completed prior to clearance, confirming that contaminant levels were within safe limits.
UNSW’s Old Main Building was declared safe for re-entry on Monday evening.