Massive Fire at Foam Container Factory in Samut Prakan

Pictures from responders.

A  fire broke out at a foam container factory in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan, threatening to engulf the entire premises before firefighters managed to bring it under control. The incident occurred at a large single-storey factory spanning over four rai in Moo 19, Soi Rattanachoti 6, Bang Phli Yai Subdistrict. The factory produces foam containers and freeze-dried durian for export.

Pol. Capt. Thanit Kitpruk, an investigator at Bang Phli Police Station, received the emergency report on the afternoon on December 21 and immediately dispatched over ten fire engines from Bang Phli Yai Subdistrict Municipality and nearby areas to the scene. Rescue personnel from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation also arrived to assist.

Upon arrival, firefighters found the blaze raging at the rear of the factory, where foam production equipment, foam rolls, and sacks of foam pellets were stored. After over an hour of battling the flames, the fire was contained, but not before the roof had collapsed and extensive damage had been done to the building, machinery, and materials. Authorities cordoned off the site due to structural damage, citing safety concerns.

Mr. Daeng, 50, the factory supervisor, described the layout of the facility, with foam rolling machines on the left and foam moulding machines on the right. The moulding machines use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks to heat and melt the foam. He stated that the fire started in the storage area for foam rolls but could not determine the exact cause.

Mr. Boonlue, 67, an eyewitness, reported hearing crackling sounds before the fire broke out. He observed thick smoke and multiple explosions as the fire rapidly spread. He noted that the fire had been burning for almost 20 minutes before the factory owner called for assistance.

Preliminary investigations by officials suggest that static electricity from the foam melting machine may have triggered the fire. However, further inspections will be conducted by factory engineering experts to assess safety risks and structural damage. Forensic specialists and related authorities will later examine the scene to determine the definitive cause of the fire.

-- 2024-12-22