Image for representation purposes only Operations at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges were disrupted after a container carrying hydrogen fluoride leaked aboard an MSC container ship. The leak occurred on the evening of 14 July while the MSC Mia Summer II was berthed at the MSC PSA European Terminal (MPET) at Deurganck Dock in Waasland Port. Belgian authorities activated the Medical Intervention Plan (MIP) as emergency teams moved to contain the leak and assess any risk to workers and the surrounding area. The incident temporarily halted cargo handling and vessel traffic in part of one of Europe’s busiest ports before authorities gradually allowed operations to resume following safety checks. MSC said terminal operations were immediately suspended and personnel evacuated as a precaution. The disruption affected Quay 1700, Quay 1718, Quay 1742 and Medrep S11, with the carrier saying the incident had significantly impacted terminal activities. Firefighters and other emergency responders carried out air quality monitoring, identified the leaking substance and assessed whether the damaged container had affected the vessel or nearby cargo before it could be removed. Authorities later confirmed that the damaged container was carrying hydrofluoric acid (HF), also known as hydrogen fluoride. Several workers became unwell after the leak and were given medical treatment before being taken to hospitals. According to Belgian media reports, up to 150 people underwent precautionary medical checks, while 25 people reportedly developed symptoms following exposure. One person was admitted to intensive care. Authorities have not confirmed the final number of people affected or how much hydrogen fluoride escaped from the container. As a precaution, authorities closed the bridges over the Kieldrecht Lock, suspended shipping traffic in the affected area and asked people to stay away from Quay 1742 while emergency teams continued monitoring air quality. Air quality measurements carried ou