Three workers were injured in a sudden explosion at a steel melting factory in the Demra area of the capital early on Sunday morning, causing panic among staff and temporarily halting operations at the facility.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:30 am at Zahir Steel Mill located in the Bashherpool area of Demra. According to eyewitness accounts and fellow workers, the explosion originated from a furnace used for melting iron. While operations were underway, a loud blast was suddenly heard, followed by molten and intensely heated metal splashing out of the furnace and striking workers nearby.
The impact left three workers with severe burn injuries. Colleagues quickly rushed to the scene, provided initial assistance, and transported the injured to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in Dhaka for emergency treatment. The sudden incident created a state of alarm within the factory premises, prompting many workers to stop work and move to safer areas.
The injured workers have been identified as Sabbir Hossain (28), Toffazzal Hossain (48), and Majed Hossain (52). Hospital sources confirmed that their burn injuries vary in severity, with two of them in a critical condition. One of the victims received primary treatment and was discharged, while the remaining two are being kept under close medical supervision.
Doctors at the burn institute stated that the patients suffered both superficial and deep tissue damage due to exposure to molten iron. The most seriously injured individuals, Sabbir and Toffazzal, are considered to be in a high-risk condition and are undergoing intensive care.
Injury and Treatment Overview
| Name | Age | Burn Severity | Current Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sabbir Hossain | 28 | 35% | Admitted, critical condition |
| Toffazzal Hossain | 48 | 23% | Under observation in hospital |
| Majed Hossain | 52 | 1% | Received primary treatment, discharged |
Fellow workers have raised concerns regarding safety measures at the factory, questioning whether adequate protective protocols were in place at the time of the incident. The blast has also reignited broader concerns about industrial safety standards in high-temperature metal processing units, where molten materials pose significant occupational hazards.
Local residents responded promptly following the explosion, assisting in transporting the injured workers to hospital. Their swift action is believed to have helped prevent further complications.
Industrial safety experts note that furnace-related accidents often occur due to inadequate maintenance, pressure build-up, or lapses in operational procedures. They emphasise that regular inspections, proper use of protective equipment, and comprehensive worker training are essential to prevent such incidents.
Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the explosion and review compliance with workplace safety regulations at the facility. Meanwhile, the condition of the two critically injured workers continues to be closely monitored by medical teams.