Fuel Tank Explosion at Factory Leaves 1 Dead, 2 Injured

Pictures courtesy of Matichon.

A powerful explosion rocked an oil equipment manufacturing plant in Tha Maka district Kanchanaburi, on the afternoon of 6 August, killing one worker and injuring two others. The incident, initially reported as a gas explosion and fire, has since been clarified as a maintenance-related incident involving a fuel tank.

At approximately 14:20, the Rom Thai emergency radio centre received reports of a violent explosion at the Tuspao Company factory, located in Moo 6, Tha Mai Subdistrict. Witnesses reported a loud blast followed by thick black smoke billowing into the sky, prompting panic among nearby residents and an immediate response from local fire and rescue services.

Initial reports suggested a gas-related fire; however, by 15:00, police and forensic officers had entered the scene and confirmed there had been no gas involved. The explosion occurred while workers were welding a 2,000-litre fuel storage tank as part of routine maintenance.

The blast killed 47-year-old maintenance technician Anom instantly. His body was found lying face-up, having suffered catastrophic injuries from the blast impact, including severe trauma to the head. Two additional workers, Weerapol 25, and Chusak 24, sustained injuries and were rushed to Makharak Hospital for treatment.

Kanchanaburi Governor Athisan Intrara and Deputy Governor Wutthipong Supakwanit received updates from the Provincial Energy Office, which investigated the cause of the incident. Officials determined that improper maintenance procedures had led to the explosion. The tank, previously used to store fuel, had not been adequately cleaned or prepared before welding. Crucially, the tank’s cap had not been removed to allow vapour escape, causing pressure to build and ignite upon contact with welding sparks.

The Energy Office confirmed that the explosion was not caused by a gas cylinder. The factory does not fall under the category of a regulated fuel-handling facility under the Fuel Control Act B.E. 2542 (1999). Nevertheless, relevant authorities, including the Provincial Industry Office, have been notified to take further legal action.

Company owner Thadphong Hakpaksa was present at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-08-07