Inquiry launched after worker killed in factory explosion

The Hub

Health and safety officials have launched an inquiry after a worker was killed in an explosion at a metals plant in Birmingham.

Emergency services were called to Timet UK at The Hub in Witton early yesterday following reports of the explosion.

It was later confirmed that a 39-year-old man working at the plant had died as a result of the explosion.

Initial reports indicate that a cooling pipe inside the plant may have burst. Whether the incident was related to the freezing temperatures in not known.

At the height of the incident, 30 firefighters were drafted in to deal with the explosion. Crews had to wear special protective clothing due to the nature of the hazardous materials used inside the plant.

Dry powder rather than water was used to extinguish the flames.

Once the incident was brought under control, the body was recovered from inside.

The man has not been named but his family have been informed.

Fire investigation officers in conjunction with the police and the Health and Safety Executive are conducting an inquiry into the cause of the accident.

The plant is part of Timet’s global operations. The metals company supplies sectors including aerospace, industrial and defence.

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