Monrovia, Liberia – A tragic explosion occurred at the Sethi Ferro Fabrik Steel Factory’s Oxygen Plant in the Monrovia Industrial Park on February 17, 2025, leaving one worker dead and prompting an immediate investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia.
The explosion reportedly occurred around 6:38 PM when an oxygen cylinder was being refilled. The blast struck Saah J. Samukai, a worker who was in close proximity to the cylinder. Samukai was found lying motionless on top of the cylinders and was confirmed dead at the scene.
The EPA swiftly responded to the incident, dispatching a high-level delegation to conduct a preliminary assessment. In a statement, the agency confirmed it was reviewing the extent of the damage to the oxygen plant and surrounding equipment. Investigators are also working to determine the cause of the explosion and whether negligence played a role.
EPA officials expressed deep sympathy to the deceased worker’s family, friends, and colleagues. “This is an incredibly sad and tragic event, and our hearts go out to Mr. Samukai’s family and his coworkers during this time of grief,” said an EPA spokesperson. “We are committed to ensuring that a thorough investigation is conducted and that all safety regulations are strictly adhered to in the future.”
The EPA emphasized that its full-scale investigation is ongoing and will focus on whether human error, equipment malfunction, or other factors caused the explosion. A comprehensive report will be made available to the public once the investigation is complete.
The agency reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety standards and regulatory compliance across industrial operations, especially in high-risk facilities like steel factories and chemical plants. The EPA also urged all companies to reassess their safety procedures to prevent similar incidents.
At the time of reporting, the factory had not yet released an official statement regarding the incident.
