18 Workers Injured In Explosion And Fire At German Factory

BASF Plant Fire Highlights Risks of Chemical Industry

18 Workers Injured in Explosion and Fire at German Factory

Reuters | July 29, 2023

An explosion and subsequent fire at the main plant of German chemical giant BASF left 18 workers slightly injured on Saturday, the company said, highlighting the risks associated with the chemical industry.

The incident, which occurred at BASF's Ludwigshafen plant in southwestern Germany, began with a leak of an organic solvent, according to the company. An explosion then occurred, triggering a fire that spread to several buildings.

The Ludwigshafen plant is one of the largest chemical production sites in the world, producing a wide range of chemicals, including plastics, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals.

The fire was eventually extinguished by firefighters, and the injured workers were taken to local hospitals for treatment. The extent of their injuries is not yet known.

BASF said it is investigating the cause of the accident and has suspended production at the affected buildings.

The incident highlights the risks associated with the chemical industry, which uses hazardous materials and operates at high temperatures and pressures.

In recent years, there have been a number of major accidents at chemical plants around the world, including a deadly explosion at a chemical plant in Texas in 2019.

BASF is one of the world's largest chemical companies, with operations in more than 90 countries. The company has a strong safety record, but the recent incident is a reminder of the risks involved in the chemical industry.