Four killed in Wessex Water recycling plant blast
The chief executive of Wessex Water said the company was ‘devastated’ following the fatal explosion at its plant in Bristol.
A major incident has been declared following the large blast at its site in Avonmouth, UK.
Three employees and a contractor were killed in the accident at its water recycling plant on Thursday.
The blast is believed to have occurred in one of the chemical tanks that held treated biosolids.
Chief executive Colin Skellett said: “We are absolutely devastated that the tragic incident at our site has resulted in four fatalities.
“Our thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of those involved.
“We are working with the Health and Safety Executive to understand what happened and why.”
A rescue operation was subsequently led by the fire service, involving five appliances and two turntable crews.
Chief Inspector Mark Runacres added: “Officers remain at the scene and are likely to be for some time as we work together with other agencies in dealing with this major incident.”
Avon Fire and Rescue Service area manager Matt Peskett confirmed crews from Avonmouth, Southmead, Yate, Patchway, Hicks Gate, Kingswood, Weston-super-Mare and Temple were all sent to the incident.
He added: “We were joined at the scene by our police and ambulance colleagues and have now handed over the incident to the police and continue to support our multi-agency partners.”
A spokesman for South Western Ambulance Service confirmed both air and land ambulances were called to the scene.
A major incident has been declared following the large blast at its site in Avonmouth, UK.
Three employees and a contractor were killed in the accident at its water recycling plant on Thursday.
The blast is believed to have occurred in one of the chemical tanks that held treated biosolids.
Chief executive Colin Skellett said: “We are absolutely devastated that the tragic incident at our site has resulted in four fatalities.
“Our thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of those involved.
“We are working with the Health and Safety Executive to understand what happened and why.”
A rescue operation was subsequently led by the fire service, involving five appliances and two turntable crews.
Chief Inspector Mark Runacres added: “Officers remain at the scene and are likely to be for some time as we work together with other agencies in dealing with this major incident.”
Avon Fire and Rescue Service area manager Matt Peskett confirmed crews from Avonmouth, Southmead, Yate, Patchway, Hicks Gate, Kingswood, Weston-super-Mare and Temple were all sent to the incident.
He added: “We were joined at the scene by our police and ambulance colleagues and have now handed over the incident to the police and continue to support our multi-agency partners.”
A spokesman for South Western Ambulance Service confirmed both air and land ambulances were called to the scene.
