Teknor Apex Fire
Smoke coming from the fire that broke out at the Teknor Apex plant in Oldbury, UK. Image via http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/replay-oldbury-blaze---firefighters-9145217
Teknor Apex has reported that there were no injuries sustained after a fire broke out at its UK production plant on April 29.
The fire, discovered in a warehouse at the site in Tat Bank Road, Oldbury, was attended by West Midlands fire service soon after its discovery by a company employee.
“Our first priority was ensuring all our employees were safe,” said Bill Murray, Teknor Apex’ President. “At this time the fire has been contained and there are no known injuries to first responders or the 31 employees who were on site. We thank the firefighters who fought this blaze and ensured the safety of everyone involved.”
According to eyewitnesses speaking to the Birmingham Mail, “huge plumes of black smoke could be seen from miles away” and “explosions could be heard in the area when the blaze started.”
Teknor Apex is in the process of setting up a temporary local business office and a team of people will be on site to evaluate the impact of the fire. At this time they are unable to enter the building due to safety concerns. The company is working with local authorities to investigate any environmental impact at the site and the surrounding area. Teknor produces thermoplastic elastomers, nylon compounds and PET compounds at this plant.
The company said it has been in communication with its customers and suppliers, and it has initiated its manufacturing backup plan to source materials from other Teknor plants around the world to ensure that customer orders are fulfilled.