Toxic Fire at Diehl Metallurgical Plant Threatens Berlin

A fire broke out at the Diehl Metal Applications (DMA) metallurgical plant located in the Lichterfelde area of Berlin.

This was reported by RIA Novosti citing German publication BZ-Berlin.

The plant, owned by Diehl, specializes in metal surface finishing and houses an electroplating workshop. The workshop contains sulfuric acid and copper cyanide, chemicals that can emit highly toxic hydrocyanic acid if ignited.

The fire prompted emergency alerts marked "danger" to be sent to Berlin residents on Friday, advising them to avoid the area, close windows and doors, and turn off HVAC systems to minimize exposure to toxic smoke.

Diehl Metal Applications is a subsidiary of Diehl, known for its involvement in the defense industry, including the production of IRIS-T air defense systems supplied to Ukraine. The impact of the fire on production activities is currently unknown.

A fire at a metalworking plant has destroyed four floors of a building covering 2,000 square meters. Employees evacuated safely, and there are no reported casualties, according to Die Stimme Berlin. 130 firefighters in protective gear are on site, the report said.

Efforts are underway to contain the fire and assess the environmental and health risks posed by the incident. Authorities are working closely with company officials to manage the situation and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation into the cause and consequences of the fire progresses. Residents are advised to follow official guidance and stay informed through authorized channels.