Explosion At UK Wastewater Plant Kills Four
A major explosion at a UK wastewater treatment facility left four employees dead and another seriously injured late last week.
“The blast happened in a silo containing treated biosolids and was not terror related, police said,” according to a report from the BBC. “A witness reported hearing a ‘very loud explosion’ that ‘shook buildings,’ and another said they saw about 10 ambulances driving to the scene.”
Three of the people found dead as a result of the blast worked full time for the facility, Wessex Water located in Avonmouth, Bristol. The fourth was a contractor. The injured individual was reported to be in a non-life-threatening condition.
“Biosolids can produce flammable methane gas when treated with bacteria, though police could not comment as to whether this was the cause of the explosion and said the investigation was ongoing,” per Science Focus. “‘The substance responsible for the explosion might well have been methane which, as is well known, is formed by sewage treatment,’ said Professor Clifford Jones, visiting professor at the University of Chester. ‘Sewage at an advanced state of treatment can form sewage sludge dust, which is capable of a dust explosion.’”
Firefighters were called to the scene shortly after the explosion.
“Avon and Somerset police confirmed that everyone had been accounted for and reassured people living nearby that there was not believed to be any further danger to the public,” The Guardian reported.
Despite the prompt and comprehensive rescue effort, the loss of four lives in the incident solicited condolences from leaders both local and national. One of the workers who was killed has been identified as 16-year-old Luke Wheaton, an apprentice at the facility.
“The fire service led the rescue operation but sadly, despite the best efforts of all those involved, there were four fatalities,” Chief Inspector Mark Runacres, of the Avon and Somerset police, told the BBC. “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts and sympathies go out to them.”
Boris Johnson, the UK’s prime minister, also offered his reflection on the tragedy.
“Deeply saddened to learn that four people have lost their lives in the water works explosion in Avonmouth,” Johnson tweeted shortly after the incident. “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. Thank you to the emergency services who attended the scene.”
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