Chemical explosion rips factory apart leaving solvents company with £40,000 fine

Images show a factory ripped apart following an explosion that has led to a £40,000 fine for a solvents company.

The blast at Rathburn Chemicals (Manufacturing) in Walkerburn, the Scottish Borders, on January 10 2020, was "likely" sparked by excessive pentane vapour, generated by distillation processes, overheating and ignited by the site's extraction system, according to the Health and Safety Executive.

Thankfully, no one was injured in the explosion, but a laboratory on the site was flattened as a result. Photos from the scene show the utter devastation caused from the blast with debris piled high. The firm was hit with a £40,000 fine after pleading guilty to charges under the Health and Safety at Work Act, at Selkirk Sheriff Court on Friday. A further £3,000 victim surcharge was also imposed.

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An HSE investigation discovered that the company had a substandard system in place which failed to control the amount of steam and heat being generated during its distillation process. The firm also fell short in detecting any signs of overheating which could lead to flammable vapour being ignited. The HSE warned that "control measures" had not been followed and said it was avoidable.

The HSE issued a statement that read: "A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found Rathburn Chemicals had an inadequate system in place which failed to control the amount of steam and heat being generated during its distillation process. The company also failed to adequately detect any signs of overheating which could lead to flammable vapour being ignited."

Inspector Isabelle Martin stated: "This was a serious incident and it is fortunate that no-one was injured by the blast. The explosion could have been avoided had Rathburn Chemicals simply carried out the correct control measures and safe working practices. This case also highlights the risks from distilling flammable substances, the need for reliable control measures and adequate training of employees. Companies looking for further advice on this issue can find readily available guidance on the HSE website."