At least 8 people were killed in a gas pipeline leakage accident in an ironworks factory in Shaoguan in northern part of Guangdong province on early Monday morning, according to a statement released by Shaoguan city government.

A total of 18 workers were taken ill due to poisoning at Sgis Songshan Co Ltd, a Shenzhen Stock Exchange listed company, at about 3 am, said the statement.

Ten of the victims were declared stable after treatment in hospital.

All relevant departments are helping in organizing rescue and handling the aftermath. The cause of the accident is under investigation.