A devastating explosion at a fireworks factory in southern China has resulted in the deaths of nine people and injured 26 others. The blast occurred at Shanzhou Fireworks Co, located near the city of Changde, Hunan Province, shortly before 8:30 am on Monday, according to state-run Xinhua News Agency.
The explosion triggered a complex firefighting effort, with firefighters reporting “secondary hazards” and the risk of further explosions. To mitigate these risks, rescue personnel used remote-controlled water cannons to extinguish flames at the site, preventing closer approaches and reducing the likelihood of additional hazards. During the rescue efforts, 28 water tankers and two drainage vehicles were dispatched to the scene.
According to Xinhua, the Hunan provincial government has established an inquiry panel to determine the cause of the explosion and “pursue accountability according to the law.” The incident has drawn attention to workplace safety standards in China, following a string of recent industrial accidents. Last month, at least five people were killed and 19 others injured in a chemical plant explosion in Weifang, Shandong province. In April, a fire at a restaurant in the northern city of Liaoyang claimed 22 lives.
The factory, located in a mountainous area of Linli county, presented challenges for rescue operations due to its remote location. Videos published by state media showed black and grey smoke rising into the sky as fireworks exploded out of a raging fire while emergency services surveyed the scene. An investigation into the incident is currently underway to determine its cause and prevent future accidents.
The incident has drawn attention to workplace safety standards in China, following a string of recent industrial accidents. Last month, at least five people were killed and 19 others injured in a chemical plant explosion in Weifang, Shandong province. In April, a fire at a restaurant in the northern city of Liaoyang claimed 22 lives. The Chinese government has launched an investigation into the fireworks factory explosion to determine its cause and prevent future accidents.