At least seven people were injured following a powerful explosion at the MIRA Oxygen and Gas Incorporated facility in Monrovia on Monday, September 15.
The blast, believed to have originated from an oxygen tanker, triggered a large-scale emergency response and renewed scrutiny over industrial safety standards in the West African nation.
Emergency Response Underway
The explosion occurred along the Japan Freeway, a major thoroughfare in the capital, sending shockwaves through surrounding neighborhoods. Emergency services, including the Liberia Fire Service (LFS) and the Liberia National Police, swiftly arrived at the scene to contain the blaze and prevent further detonations.
Deputy Fire Service Director for Operations, Edwin Tisdell, described the incident as “unfortunate” and emphasized the need for stricter safety protocols at facilities handling volatile substances.
“We have not confirmed any deaths for now, but several people have been injured,” Tisdell told reporters. “Facilities like this must be equipped with proper fire protection systems, including fire trucks. We need accountability.”
Authorities warned of the risk of secondary explosions and advised the public to avoid the area. Search and rescue operations continued into the evening, with families anxiously awaiting updates on missing loved ones.
Eyewitness Accounts
A MIRA employee, identified only as Lewis, recounted the moment of the explosion:
“One of the tankers was having a problem. A technician was told to tighten something, and then, boom—it exploded.”
Lewis said he and others outside the facility escaped unharmed, but several colleagues inside sustained serious injuries.
Safety Concerns Resurface
The incident has reignited concerns about workplace safety in Liberia’s industrial sector. MIRA Oxygen and Gas is a major supplier of medical oxygen and cooking gas nationwide. Company representatives have not yet issued a public statement.
Deputy Director Tisdell called for immediate inspections of similar facilities and urged the implementation of robust fire suppression systems.
Investigation Launched
Joint security forces have cordoned off the site as investigations begin into the cause of the explosion and potential regulatory violations. Fire crews worked late into the night to cool nearby oxygen tanks and prevent additional blasts.
Pattern of Industrial Accidents
This latest explosion follows a deadly incident in February at the Sethi Ferro Fabrik Factory, where an oxygen tank blast killed one worker and injured several others. That event prompted the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to fine the company US$5,000 for operating without a valid environmental permit and violating multiple safety regulations.
The EPA’s investigation revealed inadequate fire safety measures, improper handling of oxygen tanks, and the use of outdated compressed gas cylinders. The factory was ordered closed until corrective actions were taken.
The MIRA explosion has once again highlighted the urgent need for stronger enforcement of safety standards, regular inspections, and greater accountability across Liberia’s industrial landscape.
