Selby firefighters today used breathing apparatus and chemical suits to clean up a dangerous chemical spillage.
Two barrels of industrial cleaner were spilled at Selby Storage and Distribution on the Holmes Industrial Estate, in Millgate, Selby.
Managers believe thieves may have caused the spill as they stole diesel from the site in the early hours.
Drums from a loaded lorry were taken and emptied on to the floor before diesel was siphoned from some company vehicles.
Firefighters, who were called at 8.15 am, used a powder agent to neutralise the extremely greasy and potentially explosive substance.
The area was sealed off and drains blocked to prevent the hazardous liquid leaking into the water supply.
Commercial director Ian Craig said: "It is a wonder they have not hurt themselves as they paddled about in this dangerous stuff."
Leading firefighter Carl Vinand said: "We safely managed this incident and have now left it in the hands of specialist cleaners."
Updated: 14:22 Monday, November 19, 2001
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