Probe at Ispat after explosion

SOURCES at Caribbean Ispat told Newsday that following Tuesday’s explosion at the Point Lisas-based company, many workers stayed off the job yesterday. It is understood a probe was under way regarding the explosion, but efforts to get a verification of the report from officials at Ispat proved futile. According to sources, Caribbean Ispat was reportedly understaffed yesterday — one day after the explosion — which was said to have injured two contract workers.

The workers were hospitalised after inhaling fumes which escaped from a ruptured gas-line. In an interview with Newsday, Matthias Braveboy, chairman of the Union Safety Committee of the Steel Workers Trade Union, said, “I am not exactly aware as to the facts of the matter. However, to my understanding, nine persons were gassed and had to be hospitalised. I am not aware of any investigations being done by my officers nor have I attended any investigation meetings. But rest assured, the matter will be investigated.”