The Civil Protection Department has launched an internal inquiry into a recent accident in which two officers attempting to free people from a wrecked car were injured when a hydraulic pipe on their cutting equipment came off, releasing toxic vapour in their eyes.

CPD director Patrick Murgo confirmed the appointment of a board of inquiry but quashed suggestions the equipment, which is 10 years old, should have been replaced but was retained due to lack of funds.

He insisted the cutting machine, one of 18 the CPD owns, was regularly tested and maintained. What happened on March 13 was “an unfortunate incident” that probably took place because of something technical, he added.

Mr Murgo said the inquiry board would determine what happened and make recommendations to avoid future incidents of the sort.

The incident took place early on a Sunday morning when CPD officers Saviour Vella and David Cassar were called to assist in a head-on collision between a Suzuki and a bus in Bulebel.

Mr Murgo said the hydraulic pipe came off its coupling when the two CPD officers started to apply pressure to cut through the wreckage of the car as they tried to free two men trapped in the vehicle and were in serious condition.

Toxic hydraulic fluid gushed out, creating a plume, which burnt the rescuers’ eyes. The officers, who were wearing protective clothing, including a helmet with visor, were admitted to hospital where they were treated and discharged shortly after. Thanks to their protective clothing, the injuries were slight and they are back at work.

Mr Murgo said the equipment was tested regularly and regularly maintained. “A new cutter costs in the region of €30,000 to €40,000. I would like to have enough funds to replace equipment regularly but, then again, why replace if it is still in good condition and still passing tests? We have started an investigation into the incident and we will act on the recommendations of the inquiring board,” he said.