Authorities reported a small fire that began on an industrial site in Iowa led to an explosion, injuring three people.
As reported by Postville, Iowa's ABC affiliate KCRG, a southeastern portion of the Industrial Laminates/Norplex processing plant on Lybrand Street caught fire, causing an explosion. According to Fire Chief Jeff Bohr, three people were injured in the blast. One of the blast victims in critical condition was rushed to the University of Iowa Hospital's burn unit, while the other victims were treated on the scene.
"We are waiting for further updates [regarding our injured employees]," Alan Johnson, the plant's manager, said in a statement. "Our prayers are with our employees and their families."
Luckily, the explosion triggered the plants fire alarm system, which included a sprinkler system, that adequately suppressed the fire and kept it from spreading, noted Bohr.
The Fire Marshall has been contacted to investigate the exact cause of the fire. Damage caused by the fire and explosion is being estimated between $5 and $7 million, as reported by the WCF Courier.
Industrial Safety News brought to you by Safety Systems Technology, Inc., leaders in fire and gas detection systems.
