A dangerous truck fire and an explosion resulting in death have marked a nasty past few days in Melbourne involving commercial vehicles. A tradesman died in Mulgrave today when his plumbers van exploded, with fire brigade speculation being that this was due to a gas cylinder leak. “The Arson and Explosives Squad has attended the scene along with WorkSafe to investigate the explosion including what may have caused it,” Victoria Police say.
By Rob McKay | December 12, 2011
A dangerous truck fire and an explosion resulting in death have marked a nasty past few days in Melbourne involving commercial vehicles.
A tradesman died in Mulgrave today when his plumbers van exploded, with fire brigade speculation being that this was due to a gas cylinder leak.
“The Arson and Explosives Squad has attended the scene along with WorkSafe to investigate the explosion including what may have caused it,” Victoria Police say.
“The explosion affected a significant area and it is believed a number of people may have seen it occur.”
Worksafe Victoria was also called to a fire involving a Toll Liquids tanker that spilt fuel that ignited at a petrol station early yesterday.
WorkSafe spokeswoman Lisa Sturzenegger says the incident appears to have been “a routine activity that has gone incredibly astray” and an investigation was underway.
The 35-year-old driver suffered burns to his arms and legs and was taken the Alfred Hospital.
“An explosive fire occurred injuring the driver and seriously damaging the prime mover and both trailers,” Toll Corporate Affairs General Manager Andrew Ethell says.
“There was also damage to some surrounding vehicles and property.
“The driver suffered burns-related injuries and is in a stable condition in hospital.
“He and his family have been offered assistance by Toll.
“A number of investigations are underway.
“Toll Group is taking this incident very seriously and as such the investigations need to run their course.
“We will not be speculating on causes of the incident.”
The tanker was working under the Woolworths contract.