An explosion at a chemical plant in Toronto, Canada killed one person and seriously injured another on September 8. Emergency services were called to the Siltech chemical plant at around 10:00 local time and pronounced one person dead at the scene while another was rushed to hospital in a critical condition.
Acting Toronto Fire Chief Jim Jessop told reporters that several other people were treated and assessed at the scene having suffered chemical burns. Jessop added that hazardous materials crews were working with Siltech to ensure the site was made safe. The cause of the blast is unknown, Jessop said, adding that the significant chemical fire took a while to extinguish. Some news reports have said the blast happened after a chemical spill ignited, however these reports have not been confirmed.
According to its website, Siltech develops, manufactures, and markets a line of organo-functional silicone compounds and related specialties.
