A CHEMICAL spill sparked a major safety operation at Southampton docks.

Firefighters from Redbridge, Eastleigh, Hightown and St Mary’s stations rushed to the scene at berth 109 after reports of a spill at about 8.40am.

A Hampshire Fire and Rescue spokesman told the Daily Echo that crew members used protective gear and made the scene safe.

The spokesman said: “There was a call that came through from the docks to reports of a hazardous material.

“Due to the nature of the incident fire services donned gas proof suits and we had to investigate the spill.

“The situation was quickly resolved and handed over to the managers of the docks.”

There were no reports of any injuries in the incident, which was cleared by about 11am.