We are always reluctant to make an assumption about the root causes of an explosion. We can make assumptions, but that is all we can do until an investigative report is released. Many times one is not released. But, thankfully this recent incident was investigate and a press release regarding the root cause investigation was released. Lastly, our mantra is not to place blame on the company nor the worker(s). It is our sincere hope that by bringing awareness to these incidents we can prevent a recurrence. Our mantra has not changed for 13 years and we pray it never does. Here is the story:
On Monday, March 20, 2023, the (local) Department of Public Safety (GDPS) Fire Investigation Unit conducted an origin and cause investigation into the explosion incident occurring at (aluminium wheel manufacturer), on Friday, March 17, 2023. Investigating the incident were Public Safety Officer and Fire Investigators (names omitted), both trained in fire and explosion investigations. (company) Facilities Manager also assisted in the investigation as well. Specific agents from the ATF, also specially trained in explosion investigations, provided support during the examination of the incident area. While conducting the inquiry, the evidence showed an employee was utilizing a hand grinder as part of a maintenance project in the foundry area. While performing the repair work to a piece of machinery, sparks from the hand grinder inadvertently ignited aluminum dust in the vicinity of the labor being executed. This ignition of dust set off the explosion transpiring on Friday night.
There was one individual who was injured and we
pray that they recover from their injuries.
So, this incident was an aluminium dust
explosion. Sadly, this location has had nearly five incidents over the years
and three within 8 months. As with most catastrophic explosions. Smaller explosions
that are not fully investigated can recur and overtime grow larger in size
until the catastrophic explosion.
The Light Metal Age magazine had an article on
this topic.
Aluminium Times magazine had two articles on this
topic.
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