Date: September 14, 2021
Location: Savannah, Georgia (USA)
Address: 1311 Mills B. Lane, 31405
Type: Dust Explosion
Fuel: Flour Dust
Industry: Baked Goods (Food Processing)
Equipment: Unknown
Company: Derst Baking Company
Database Incidents: None Recorded
Loss: Two Injured
Capital Cost: $25000
Status: Open
Confirmation: Unconfirmed
Company Description:
According to its website, Derst Baking Company, which also does business as Flowers Foods, is a baked goods producer headquartered in Thomasville, Georgia. Founded in 1919, it is one of the largest producers of packaged bakery foods in the United States. The company operates 46 bakeries that produce a wide range of bakery foods for retail and food service customers in the U.S.
Incident Description:
On September 14, 2021, WSAV reported an explosion at a baked goods producer in Savannah, Georgia.
The Savannah Fire Department reported that a small dust explosion occurred in a flour mixing room at the plant. Damage was done to one wall.
The building’s fire suppression system extinguished the fire, and SFD crews searched for hot spots. The road was temporarily closed so crews could respond and reopened at 9:40 am.
Two employees reported minor injuries. A fire investigator was called to the scene to investigate the cause of the explosion.
Research Team Update:
The Savannah Fire Department investigation report indicates that the explosion occurred in the sifting room, which was fitted with a plastic curtain to contain potential dust from the mechanical equipment involved. The report specifies that electrical controls for the room were enclosed in ‘protective boxes and what appeared to be explosion-proof housings.’
The investigator noted several electrical components within the room which showed damage or exposure that could have been an ignition source. The investigator also noted that afterwards, maintenance advised him/her that they found a wire which may have been damaged by a falling bag and showed electrical arcing. However, the investigator was unable to independently confirm these findings.
Sources:
WSAV
Savannah Fire Department #21-0008292
