Two workers rescued inside landscaper tank

Houston—Two workers overcome by fumes March 27 while inside a 2,000-gallon truck-mounted hydroseeding tank were rescued and taken to a hospital by emergency responders, apparently with only minor injuries. A brief statement from the Houston fire department said that the two men were overcome by fumes while conducting mechanical repairs inside the tank at Aqualawn Hydromulch. The tank is apparently used to transport a mixture of mulch, seed, and fertilizer for commercial landscaping projects. One worker was able to get out on his own, while fire department rescue teams had to assist the other individual out of the tank. Hazardous material teams determined the chemical was hydrogen sulfide. The two men were given oxygen and washed off; although injuries at first appeared not serious, both men were transported to the hospital for a checkup. Officials said the men were semi-conscious, but there was no word from the hospital on their conditions or when they would be released. No other problems were reported, and the scene was cleared a little over a half hour later.