Sethi Ferro Fabrik Closed Following Fatal Oxygen Explosion in Liberia
The Sethi Ferro Fabrik steel factory was shut down by the EPA after an oxygen explosion led to the death of an employee. Safety violations were identified during an investigation, and the factory was operating without a license. The House of Representatives has called for an inquiry to improve safety conditions in industrial workplaces in Liberia.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has shut down the Sethi Ferro Fabrik Incorporated steel factory following a tragic incident where an oxygen explosion resulted in the death of an employee, Saah Samukai. The explosion occurred on February 19, 2025, while Samukai was alone drilling at the oxygen plant after colleagues had left him unattended.
EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo reported safety deficiencies at the factory during an investigation, highlighting a need for immediate action to protect worker safety. He emphasized that with proper safety measures, like operational fire extinguishers, lives could have been spared.
The agency discovered that Sethi Ferro Fabrik was operating without the required licenses, leading to its immediate closure. During a facility tour, Dr. Urey instructed the management to prioritize worker safety and adhere to legal regulations to prevent future accidents.
In a subsequent development, the Liberian House of Representatives has called upon several ministries, including Labor and Commerce, along with Sethi Ferro management, to provide explanations regarding the explosion and employee safety measures. This session is set for February 25, 2025, and addresses ongoing concerns over labor conditions.
Representative Ivar K. Jones, who initiated the call for investigation, stressed the urgent need to enforce safety regulations in industrial environments. He reminded legislators of constitutional provisions ensuring safe working conditions and raised questions about the EPA’s effectiveness in managing environmental safety compliance after prior accidents in the country.
The closure of Sethi Ferro Fabrik highlights critical issues in industrial safety regulations in Liberia. The incident underscores the necessity for the government and relevant agencies to strengthen enforcement of safety standards to protect workers. Ongoing investigations and discussions within the legislative assembly aim to address these alarming safety concerns and ensure accountability among factory operators.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
