Overcharged batteries are to blame for the release of toxic fumes in the Bank of Bermuda's Compass Point building.

Fourteen firefighters in three appliances went to the entrance of the underground parking lot on Gorham Road shortly after 12.20 p.m. yesterday.

Jeanne Atherden, VP of Group Premises and Administration Manager confirmed the "displacement of fumes'' was the result of overcharged batteries.

The batteries provide an uninterruptible power supply for the Bank.

She added the situation was monitored throughout the morning by crews from the Maintenance Department, Fire Service, Universal Electric and the Ministry of Works and Engineering.

Ms Atherden said the crews took "appropriate precautions'' to prevent danger to employees, clients, general public, and themselves.

There was no interruption to Bank of Bermuda services at any time.

A relay of four firefighters wearing breathing equipment and special suits went into the building and monitored the heat build-up in the room.

The leading firefighter on the scene Divisional Officer John Pacheco said the firefighters did "extremely well'' for a scenario they have trained for.

"There was a very slight release of sulphuric acid,'' D.O. Pacheco said.

"That was not our main problem. We also had to monitor the heat build-up from the batteries.'' D.O. Pacheco said another room also filled with batteries was only "warm'' compared to the room with the spill which was "very hot''.

The temperature was monitored until firefighters left shortly after 2.30 p.m.

"What you saw today is standard operating procedure with them going in wearing Encapsulation Suits and breathing equipment,'' D.O. Pacheco said.

"The shower afterward is in case there is any residue on them. Yes, my team did extremely well.''