A tragic incident unfolded at the Ministry of Fisheries’ regional service center in Wainibokasi, Nausori, where an explosion involving an empty diving tank claimed the life of a young man and left two others injured. The explosion occurred around 3 PM when a co-worker was using a grinder to cut the tank, which resulted in shrapnel striking the victim, Manoa Tugi, who was in his 20s.
Residents nearby reported a loud explosion that startled them from their homes, and many rushed to the scene, witnessing the chaos as emergency responders arrived. Witnesses described the horrifying aftermath, with one stating that Tugi appeared to have suffered severe injuries, including the loss of a leg.
Authorities have confirmed that Manoa Tugi did not survive the injuries caused by the blast, and two others, including the co-worker using the grinder, were rushed to the Wainibokasi Health Centre before being transferred to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital due to the severity of their injuries.
Previously, similar incidents have been reported in the area, including a recent explosion during maintenance on a yacht that resulted in serious injuries. These accidents highlight ongoing concerns regarding workplace safety, particularly in environments dealing with hazardous materials.
In response to the incident, the Ministry of Fisheries has pledged to conduct its own investigation to ensure accountability and improve safety protocols to prevent future tragedies. Investigators are looking into the circumstances surrounding the explosion to establish factors that could enhance safety measures for employees.
As investigations continue, there remains hope that these tragic events will lead to improved safety standards across various sectors, ultimately protecting workers and the public alike. Families impacted by these incidents are seeking justice and clarity, pushing for better workplace safety regulations to help prevent such tragedies in the future.
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