A “VERY hazardous” chemical has leaked from a cargo container at a Southampton industrial estate.

Emergency services are at the scene dealing with the incident after an “organic chemical” was found leaking from a crate on the back of a lorry in Nursling at about 11.50am.

About 30 firefighters have been called to the scene on Test Lane to deal with the spill while engineers working at the nearby roundabout have been evacuated.

It is understood the chemical leaked from a vehicle inside Maritime Transport in Nursling Industrial Estate.

No one had been evacuated from the building.

A spokesman from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said the spill was contained within the building.

They added that firefighters are investigating the scene at the moment.

A spokesman from Maritime Transport said: “It came off the container ship in the Port of Southampton. It’s an import. It’s on its way somewhere.”

Crews from Redbridge, St Mary’s, Totton, Winchester and Totton were sent to the scene as well as paramedics from South Central Ambulance Service to help.

John Dyer, tactical advisor from Southampton Central Ambulance Service said: “There’s a small leak of chemical. Hampshire Fire and Rescue Services have assessed and there no danger to the public and no casualties. Hampshire Fire and Rescue are handing back the sire to the owners.

“It’s an organic solvent. It’s very hazardous, it’s a very small leak and low in concentration.”

A spokesman from South Central Ambulance Service added: “We are dealing with a chemical incident at Test Lane, Southampton with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service but there is no public health risk.

“People have been saying on social media that they have been told to close windows.

"That’s not true. No one has to do anything.

“It was a solvent that has leaked from a container.

"Our Hazardous Area Response Team are there but the fire service have got the spillage contained.

“Nobody has been injured.”