Firework factories seriously monitored to prevent fire

BANGKOK, Nov 4 – The Permanent Secretary for industries ordered operators of factories, especially firework plants, to take precautions as fires at factories become frequent in the winter. Pasu Loharjun, permanent secretary of the Industry Ministry, said dry weather in the winter easily caused fire especially at factories that were accelerating production before the New Year festival. He ordered the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand, the Department of Industrial Works, and provincial industrial chiefs to warn factory owners to take precautions. According to him, about 14,000 factories nationwide are vulnerable to fire. They include factories producing tapioca flour, textile, yarn, clothes, wooden furniture, paper, paints, thinner, fireworks, and rubber and plastic products. “There is serious concern about 18 firework factories. Provincial industrial offices were ordered to issue warnings to local operators so that they will be careful with all production stages as well as their storage. They must be free of sparks and all fuel and flammable substances must be kept away from their products,” Mr Pasu said. Firework plants are in Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, Chai Nat, Saraburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Si Sa Ket, Amnat Charoen, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Sukhothai and Samut Sakhon provinces, he said. Factory operators can download safety measures at www.diw.go.th. (TNA)