A SUSPECTED chemical leak in a biohazard laboratory at The Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research (IGER) at North Wyke led to the evacuation of the buildings last week. One fire crew from Okehampton, one from North Tawton and a specialist hazardous chemicals officer with Devon Fire and Rescue service were called to IGER at around 11am on Wednesday, November 1. Crews used four breathing apparatus sets to made a check of the building and all staff were evacuated. Full precautions were taken because of the potential chemicals involved but following investigations, the source of the leak was believed to have been steam from a sterilization unit. The crews were detained at the scene for around five hours. Chemicals suits were available but did not have to be used and the ambulance service attended as a precaution.