On January 12 at 2:30 pm, a batch of polyurethane foam blocks is produced by an automotive supplier. These blocks were supposed to be shaped by cutting operations. As usual after being produced, the blocks are stored in a dedicated storage area for drying/maturing.
On January 13 at 1:00 am, an employee detects a smell of smoke but can’t locate the fire. At 1:37 am, the fire protection system is activated (automatic sprinklers). The fire pump running and sprinkler waterflow alarms are received at the guardhouse. The guard informs the plant emergency squad which goes immediately to the concerned area.
At 1:37 am, the plant emergency squad inspects the area and notes that the sprinkler system has controlled and suppressed the fire. An intense smoke cloud is observed. This smoke is spreading to the assembly and the plastic injection areas that are located near the storage area of polyurethane foam blocks. The plant emergency squad opens all doors and windows in the concerned areas for venting the smoke.
