[InTime News]
A mercury spill discovered at a primary school playground in Elounda, northeastern Crete, around midday Thursday has prompted a series of precautionary actions by local authorities.
Two school cleaners who are believed to have come into contact with the substance were taken to a nearby hospital as a safety precaution. Meanwhile, students who were near the mercury are being monitored under parental supervision.
The origin of the mercury, estimated to weigh around 30 grams, remains unknown.
The substance was initially discovered by pupils, who immediately alerted their teachers. Specialized response teams were dispatched to the school and successfully removed the mercury from the premises.
As a safety measure, the school will remain closed on Friday, principal Manolis Makrakis announced.