MONROVIA- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through its Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo has released findings from a tragic explosion that occurred at approximately 6:38 PM on February 17, 2025, at the Oxygen Plant of Sethi Ferro Fabrik Steel Factory, located in Jamaica Road, Monrovia Industrial Park, Old LPRC Road, Gardnerville.
By Francis G. Boayue, [email protected]
Following a media report about a tragic explosion that occurred at approximately 6:38 PM on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the Oxygen Plant of Sethi Ferro Fabrik Steel Factory, located on Jamaica Road, Old LPRC Road, Gardnerville. The incident claimed the attention of the EPA leading to the EPA taking a cease of the situation and dispatched a high-level delegation headed by its Deputy Executive Director to conduct a preliminary assessment of the accident.
Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, the EPA Executive Director, in a press conference over the weekend, said the EPA’s Initial findings indicated that the explosion originated from an Oxygen Cylinder that was being refilled, adding that a worker, identified as Saah J. Samukai, was near the affected cylinder at the time of the explosion and was found lying motionless on top of the cylinders. It was confirmed that he tragically lost his life due to the incident.
The EPA investigation has revealed lapses in safety protocols, environmental compliance, and emergency preparedness.
“The absence of fire safety measures, improper handling of hazardous materials, lack of protective equipment, and expired environmental permits contributed to a hazardous working environment.
“Additionally, the presence of overused and potentially corroded gas cylinders increased the risk of catastrophic failures. The lack of training records and safety drills further exacerbated the unsafe conditions at the facility. The findings indicate that the incident was preventable had the facility adhered to proper safety and environmental regulations.
Moreover, operating an industrial facility without a valid environmental permit violates Part III, Section 6 of the Environmental Protection and Management Law of Liberia,” the EPA Boss asserted.
Dr. Urey Yarkpawolo also recommended that the management of Sethi Ferro Fabrik Steel Factory take immediate action on these measures to ensure the safety of its workers and compliance with national regulations.