Safety warning after four Queensland workers injured in an explosion

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has issued a safety warning after four workers were injured in an explosion in November 2021. Early enquiries indicate that the incident happened when an “extractor” exploded.  This is a machine used to extract rosin and turpentine from pine wood chips.

An investigation into the cause of the incident is still underway.

Following the incident, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland said persons conducting a business or undertaking must, if there is a possibility of fire or explosion in a hazardous area being caused by an ignition source being introduced into the area, ensure the ignition source is not introduced into the area (from outside or within the space).

WHSQ added that potential sources of ignition in a hazardous area can be controlled by ensuring any later changes to the operation or design of equipment associated with a hazardous area are managed with suitable processes that re-assess the hazardous area classification and zones.

A person conducting a business or undertaking must also ensure only licensed electrical workers who are competent to install, service and maintain electrical equipment associated with hazardous areas are engaged.

Read the full safety alert on Workplace Health and Safety Queensland website.