Watch: Chemical Explosion Sparks Major Fire at Factory in Melbourne

Residents in Melbourne's west are being cautioned to stay clear of the area surrounding a significant factory fire that has impacted air and water quality.

Summarized Insights:

• Large fire after chemical explosion.

• Toxic smoke and water contamination.

• Second fire at the factory this year.

• Extensive firefighting efforts ongoing.

• Heavy traffic delays and road closures.

On Wednesday, a large fire broke out at a factory on Swann Drive in Derrimut following a "large chemical explosion" at approximately 11:20 am. 

The fire continued to burn through the night, requiring a massive response from Fire Rescue Victoria. 

The fire was finally deemed under control by 3:32 pm, with 180 firefighters and over 50 trucks responding to what was classified as a "seventh alarm" fire.

AUSTRALIA

The Moment Fireball Engulfs Chemical Factory Caught on Camera

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This was the dramatic moment a fireball erupted from a burning chemical factory in Melbourne.

A chemical explosion at… pic.twitter.com/KMG7HLAlcF

— Abhay (@AstuteGaba) July 11, 2024

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has urged residents in the affected area to exercise caution. 

While no ash impacts have been observed, the EPA advised people to wipe down surfaces if ash is spotted and to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption. 

Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner Community Safety Joshua Fischer highlighted the presence of several chemicals and dangerous goods on site that were consumed in the fire, although the exact quantity remains unknown.

The firefighting efforts have resulted in contaminated water runoff, which is being managed in collaboration with the EPA. 

Atmospheric monitoring is ongoing to ensure the safety of businesses in the area, allowing them to return to their premises on a case-by-case basis. 

Despite these efforts, road closures remain in place, and a 'Watch and Act' warning is still active for the area.

This fire is the second at the same factory in less than a year, following a previous incident in October that resulted in the death of a 44-year-old man. 

WorkSafe is now responding and will investigate the company to determine the cause of these recurring fires.

Fire Rescue Victoria reported that around three million litres of water and 40,000 litres of foam were used to suppress the fire. 

Currently, three appliances are actively working to suppress the fire, with an additional 11 appliances on the scene providing support. 

It is expected that the fire will continue to burn for several days.

Residents are being assured that there is no immediate threat, but they are advised to monitor conditions and stay informed. 

Telstra has reported a 4G and 5G network outage in Derrimut, and PowerCor has reported a power outage affecting some residents near the fire.

Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner Michelle Cowling explained that the presence of various chemicals, including kerosene, fuel, methylated spirits, and ethanol inside the factory, made it challenging for crews to bring the fire under control. 

Fuel drums inside the factory were exploding and launching into the air, posing a significant danger to emergency services and residents.

Cowling estimated that crews would be on site for several days due to the high fuel load in the factory. 

The fire cannot be cooled down easily and will need to be pulled apart to be fully extinguished. Surrounding factories have been evacuated, with the biggest threat to the community being the toxic smoke produced by the fire. 

"We take this very seriously," Cowling emphasized, noting the unknown contents of the smoke and its potential to cause damage.

Police, Melbourne Water, and the EPA were called to assess the damages. 

Aerial footage showed burnt gas bottles at the site as the fire continued to grow, forcing a fence to collapse and threatening a nearby grassed area.

The incident has caused heavy traffic delays around the area, with Swann Drive and the Western Freeway forced to close. 

Motorists are urged to avoid the area, keep their car ventilation on recirculate, and windows up to avoid exposure to the toxic smoke.