Meridian Magnesium Explosion in Eaton Rapids, Michigan Injures 2

An explosion and fire at Meridian Magnesium in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, injured two people. As part of its safety procedure, one hundred and fifty people were evacuated from the building.

The fire began at about 1:30 am Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at the plant at 2001 Industrial Drive on M-99. The fire was followed by two or three explosions. One person was knocked down and blown through the doors by the force of the explosion. These explosions can cause crush injuries.

One worker had a shoulder injury, and the other suffered a laceration. Both of the injured people were treated at local hospital and released later that same day.

Magnesium Spill Possible Cause of Fire and Explosions

Meridian Magnesium is Eaton Rapids’ largest employer. The plant makes magnesium components for auto parts. Officials think that the blaze started in a part of the plant where magnesium scraps are placed on a conveyor belt. The fire then caused a series of explosions.

In addition to the injuries, the incident caused considerable damage at the plant. Part of the building’s roof was blown off and was still smoking 12 hours later.

The fire was contained by fire fighters and first responders. A chemical spill, which may have caused by the incident, was contained. Officials do not know if the chemical spill will risk local drinking water. A curtain was installed to protect a nearby creek and river.

Eaton Rapids Fire Chief Roger McNutt said the fire was “one of the worst” he has seen in his 40 years as a firefighter. Magnesium fires can not be extinguished by water, so the Meridian Magnesium fire will be left to burn out on its own. No evacuations from the town were ordered, but residents were asked to avoid the area.

News reports state that fires are not uncommon at the plant. Firefighters were called to a smaller fire at that industrial complex on March 31, 2018.

Source

Greco, Rachel, et al. “’It’s a miracle’ only two people injured in devastating Eaton Rapids factory fire.” Lansing State Journal, May 2, 2018.