Nineteen factory workers at garment manufacturer TY Fashion Cambodia fainted yesterday after being overcome by the smell of manure being used by a farmer nearby.

The workers fainted after ventilation fans in the factory, located in Kandal province’s Ponhea Leu district, directed the stench into the factory.

They were taken to Krang Ponlei Hospital, according to the National Police website.

“Nine people were sent home [from hospital] because their condition was not so serious, and the remaining 10 workers may go home later today,” said Nu Len, Tom Nob Thom commune chief.

He said the workers were allowed to rest at home after the incident and were expected to resume work today or on Monday.

It was unclear if the factory or National Social Security Fund will pick up the bill for their medical expenses.

Cyril Wang, representative for the Taiwanese-owned factory, and NSSF spokesman Cheav Bunrith could not be reached for comment yesterday.

The incident comes five weeks after more than 100 workers fainted in Kampong Speu after inhaling pesticide fumes.