An explosion occurred in a lead-melting tank at a factory in the Bo Thong Industrial Estate, Kabin Buri District, Prachin Buri Province, leaving two workers dead and injuring nine others.

 

The incident took place at approximately 09:25 on October 26. Pol. Lt. Col. Worawit Wanna, investigating officer from Wang Takhian Police Station, received notification of the explosion at the lead processing plant, which is owned by Chinese investors. Emergency teams, including Kabin Buri’s Sajja Phutthatham Rescue Unit and Prachinburi disaster prevention officials, rushed to the scene.

 

The affected facility, specialising in the production of zinc, lead, tin, and related base products, employs a workforce of 232 individuals (205 men and 27 women). 

 

The explosion claimed the lives of two Burmese workers. One worker, identified as Mr. Min Aung, 35, died on-site, while Mr. Thet Wai, also 35, succumbed to his injuries shortly after being taken to Kabin Buri Hospital. Nine other workers suffered hazardous exposure and burn injuries and were promptly treated before being transported to the hospital.

 

Rescue volunteers reported that they initially discovered one fatality and multiple injuries. The blast reportedly occurred while workers were mixing lead and zinc materials, causing a pressure surge that led to a tank cover explosion. Tragically the worker standing around the top the tank fell into the mixer and was fatally injured.

 

Officials from Prachinburi’s forensic unit are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion. The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) has ordered a temporary shutdown of operations within the facility.

 

Initial investigations indicate that the explosion occurred after workers inadvertently exceeded the recommended chemical loads, leading to a violent chemical reaction.

 

Acting IEAT Governor, Mr. Sumet Tangprasert, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and emphasised IEAT’s commitment to a rigorous investigation to prevent similar incidents in the future. IEAT officials have been dispatched to the scene to monitor safety all procedures closely.

 

The factory, which had received its operating permit on January 30, 2024, and began operations on February 2, 2024, under license number 2-61-0-301-00065-2567, is being reviewed for compliance with safety regulations. IEAT has committed to assessing the damage, environmental impact, and providing necessary support and compensation to affected individuals.

 

This incident follows a recent explosion at another chemical facility in Tha Tum, Sri Maha Phot District, Prachinburi, roughly a week ago. The series of incidents has prompted authorities to urge enhanced safety inspections of machinery and processes within local industrial sites to prevent further loss of life and injury.

 

Picture from responders.

 

-- 2024-10-27

 

 

On 10/27/2024 at 5:43 AM, Georgealbert said:

Tragically the worker standing around the top the tank fell into the mixer and was fatally injured.

Yikes.