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Institution responds to explosions in Tianjin, China

the Press Office

Institution Fellow, Dr Tony Cox, says it is much too soon to have clear answers, but investigators will be trying to capture evidence so they can later establish exactly what caused the explosions.

Dr Tony Cox, Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, offers his insight into the explosions in Tianjin, China:

"The focus for the Chinese Government at the moment is, quite rightly, in treating the injured, housing those who have been left homeless, as well as dealing with the structural and potential toxic damage caused by this tragic and economically devastating explosion.

"It is much too soon to have clear answers, but investigators will be trying to capture evidence so they can later establish exactly what caused the explosions.   It seems from the fact that both of the two explosions were captured on amateur video, that there must have been a fire that got out of control and caused people to get out their cameras.  That fire then escalated into two severe detonations, both caught on camera.

"There will be questions as to why this warehouse stocking dangerous goods was located so near to residential buildings. For example EU and UK land planning controls enforce minimum separation distances.

"There will also be questions as to why such a large quantity of explosive were able to explode all at once, as these substances should be stored in relatively small amounts, well-spaced apart to avoid the escalation of an accident.

"In addition, it appears there were several toxic substances in the warehouse, and in general it is not a good practice to allow toxic substances to be stored near to potentially explosive substances.

"If, as is being reported, there were a great variety of chemicals on this site then it is likely that the physical disruption of the packages, tanks or containers will have released much of this material. The subsequent application of water to combat the fire might unfortunately cause then to run off-site into water courses or the sea.”

Dr Tony Cox, Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, specialises in risk and safety management and accident investigations

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