Two women in their 50s died on Wednesday at a refinery in Ashdod after losing consciousness while working in a laboratory area. Early reports suggest a malfunction in their oxygen suits may have prevented them from receiving adequate air.

Magen David Adom (MDA) teams rushed to the scene after receiving emergency calls. “When we arrived, both women were unconscious, with no pulse or breathing,” said paramedic Hila Bizawi. “We performed prolonged CPR, including chest compressions and medication, but unfortunately, we had no choice but to declare them dead at the scene.”

The refinery’s emergency protocols were immediately activated. Its certified first-aid team began initial treatment before MDA personnel arrived. Firefighters then conducted scans and monitoring to detect any hazardous materials, and authorities confirmed there is no current risk to the surrounding community.