Abu Dhabi: Two Indian workers died after inhaling poisonous gas while cleaning a sewer, police said in a statement.

Colonel Othman Al Tamimi, Director of Emergency Management and Public Safety, said the workers, employed by a private company, were cleaning a sewer when the accident happened last Wednesday.

Rescue team rushed to the site when notified about the accident, but the workers were already dead, he said.

He said companies must ensure their workers take safety measures, like appropriate clothing and protective measures, before they undertake such tasks.

According to a rescue official, the accident occurred close to 4pm.