A Fire and Emergency spokesperson told the Herald eight fire engines were at the “hazardous substance” incident at Solvent Rescue.
According to the Solvent Rescue website, the business is an independently owned and operated specialist solvent recycling and liquid purifying plant.
The Fire and Emergency spokesperson said crews rescued two people affected by chemicals after entering the site.
Others were evacuated from the building.
Crews were working to make the premises safe.
Emergency services at the scene of a chemical incident at a commercial premises in Sydenham, Christchurch.
Hato Hone St John said ambulance staff treated three people and took them to Christchurch Hospital.
“One patient was in a critical condition, and the other two patients were in moderate condition.”
Police said they were at the site to manage traffic.
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