Auckland college evacuated after chemical spill

An Auckland college was evacuated today after a chemical spill.

The principal of St. Cuthbert's College in Epsom said jars containing chemicals were broken and leaked into a room in the art department around midday.

"A staff member was preparing to empty a set of shelves containing historic biological specimen glass jars," Principal Charlotte Avery said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, one of the shelves collapsed and some specimen jars were broken."

Avery said the building was evacuated and the Fire Service was called, and the building was thoroughly cleaned and aired out.

Hato Hone St John said nine patients were assessed and treated at the scene for minor concerns, and no-one was transported to hospital.

"Our absolute priority was the safety of our students and staff.

"One of our teachers came into contact with the substance, and some of our students have been impacted by fumes.

"Our staff and students are safe. Students impacted by the fumes have had their eyes washed. As a precaution we ensured our Junior School students played inside during break time."

The building would soon be safe for entry again, she said.

"We understand that the substance in the jars was a type of formaldehyde, which was stored in a locked cabinet. We are currently reviewing all our storage of historic specimens which will be removed."