Date: September 11, 2019
Location: Wijhe, Overijssel (Netherlands)
Address: Ambachtsweg 6, 8131
Type: Dust Explosion
Fuel: Spice Powder
Industry: Spice Manufacturing (Food Processing)
Equipment: Processing Machine
Company: Arva Spices
Database Incidents: None Recorded
Loss: Three People Injured
Capital Cost: Unknown
Status: Open
Confirmation: Unconfirmed
Company Description:
According to the company website, Arva Spices is a family-run business that processes and sells herbs and spices. Raw materials are unloaded, stored, ground, and mixed on the premises before being packaged and distributed. The company, which is located in Wijhe in the Netherlands, has 12 employees and opened for business in 1974.
Incident Description:
On September 11, 2019, Destentor reported a dust explosion and fire at a spice manufacturing company in Wijhe in the Netherlands.
The incident started when a fire broke out in a processing machine at around 2:30 p.m. It was followed by an explosion that blew away the building facade and a rolling door. Three people were injured and conveyed to a nearby hospital. One of the victims is said to have sustained significant burn injuries.
A Security Region representative stated that no hazardous substances were released and there was no danger to the environment. According to RTVoost, they also stated that the cause of the incident is believed to be a blockage in the herb grinder.
The mayor of Wijhe went to the site. He told reporters that the cause of the explosion and fire, which did major damage to the premises, was being investigated. The SZW Inspectorate, which investigates labor-related matters, has also received a report about the explosion.
