Explosion and fire at Hong Kong recycling yard injure seven
A major fire and explosion at a recycling yard in Hong Kong’s Tai Po injured seven people and forced evacuations, with authorities probing possible safety lapses.
- A fire and explosion at a recycling yard in Hong Kong injured seven people, including workers and a firefighter.
- Around 300 people were evacuated as thick smoke and repeated explosions alarmed nearby residents.
- Authorities are investigating unsafe handling of materials, including possible aerosol can mishandling.
HONG KONG: A fire accompanied by multiple explosions broke out at a recycling yard in Tai Po Industrial Estate, Hong Kong, on the morning of 26 March, injuring seven people and triggering a large-scale emergency response.
The incident occurred at around 11.01am along Ting Kok Road near Fung Yuen Road, where witnesses reported hearing loud blasts before thick smoke and flames rapidly engulfed the site. Images circulating online showed towering plumes of black smoke visible from surrounding districts.
Residents in nearby areas described hearing repeated explosion-like sounds, prompting alarm and emergency calls.
Injuries reported, including workers and firefighter
According to emergency services, a total of seven individuals were affected in the incident.
Three male victims, including a 64-year-old worker, a 58-year-old delivery driver, and a 35-year-old employee, suffered severe burns across multiple parts of their bodies and were taken to Prince of Wales Hospital for treatment. Their conditions were reported as serious.
Other injured individuals included two female workers and one male customer, who sustained varying degrees of burns and sought treatment at nearby hospitals. One female victim was later transferred to another hospital in critical condition.
A firefighter also reported dizziness during rescue operations and was treated before being discharged. Additionally, a woman at the scene experienced shock but declined hospitalisation after receiving on-site medical attention.
Firefighting operations and evacuation efforts
The Hong Kong Fire Services Department responded within minutes, deploying two hose lines, two breathing apparatus teams, and additional rescue personnel to contain the blaze.
Advanced equipment, including a firefighting robot and drones, was also used to assist in suppression efforts, search operations, and on-site assessment. In total, authorities mobilised 25 fire engines, 29 ambulances, and over 170 emergency personnel.
As the fire intensified, approximately 300 people in the surrounding area were evacuated or self-evacuated to safety as a precaution. Authorities also implemented traffic control measures, partially closing lanes along Ting Kok Road, which led to congestion in the area.
The fire was largely extinguished by about 12.37pm, though crews continued cooling operations to prevent re-ignition.
Possible cause linked to unsafe handling of materials
Preliminary investigations by authorities suggest that the fire may have been triggered by the improper handling of recyclable materials, particularly small aerosol canisters.
Officials indicated that mishandling or unsafe processing of such pressurised items could have led to the explosions heard before the fire spread. Investigators are also examining whether there was excessive storage of gas cylinders at the site, which may have contributed to the severity of the incident.
The exact cause remains under investigation, and relevant departments have been notified to determine whether any safety regulations were breached.
Public safety advisory issued in Hong Kong
During the incident, authorities issued advisories urging members of the public affected by drifting smoke and unusual odours to remain indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and stay calm.
The scale of the smoke raised concerns about air quality and potential health risks, particularly for residents in nearby housing areas.
Officials reiterated the importance of proper industrial safety practices, especially in facilities handling potentially hazardous or combustible materials.
Broader concerns over industrial safety
The incident has renewed attention on safety standards in recycling and industrial facilities across Hong Kong, particularly those dealing with mixed or potentially hazardous waste.
Experts note that improper sorting or handling of items such as aerosol cans, gas cylinders, and chemical containers can significantly increase fire risks.
Authorities are expected to review compliance measures and may take enforcement action if violations are confirmed. The case also highlights the need for stricter oversight and enhanced safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in densely populated urban environments.
