Minister sets 48-hour deadline for checks on ammonium nitrate production, storage
In a bid to avoid a disaster like the recent explosion in Lebanon, Industry Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit on Friday (August 7) ordered the Department of Industrial Works to monitor the production and storage of ammonium nitrate produced in Rayong’s IRPC industrial estate.
The minister has also instructed officials to check on the handling of explosive materials and chemicals at nine factories that produce matches and fireworks.
The minister expects a report on all this within 48 hours.
Ammonium nitrate is normally used in the production of matches, fireworks and explosives, as well as for the production of pesticide and animal-related products.
It is believed that improperly stored ammonium nitrate was behind the explosion in Beirut, which killed at least 137 and injured thousands.
