Worker injured in fire and explosion at Illawarra industrial site - Port Kembla
Published: 13 Feb 2024 02:13pm
Dozens of Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) firefighters are working to control a chemical fire at an industrial site at Port Kembla, in the state's Illawarra.
Six cylinders containing the highly flammable gas, acetylene, caught alight at the Springhill Road facility just after 10:30am today.
The cylinders have been generating significant heat, with their exposure to flames posing a risk of an explosion.
Fifty workers at the site have been evacuated, as a precaution.
FRNSW has deployed more than 40 firefighters and 11 fire trucks, including specialist hazardous materials (HAZMAT) crews, which are working with on-site experts.
Fire crews have been working to protect a nearby building by applying water to the impacted cylinders and keeping surrounding areas cool.
The blaze will continue to burn until the gas supply is consumed by fire.
At this stage, three of the cylinders have burnt-out, while three remain alight.
FRNSW has been advised a worker sustained minor burns and drove himself to hospital prior to the arrival of emergency services.
Updated: 13 Feb 2024 02:18pm
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
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