In a harrowing industrial incident, two workers sustained severe burn injuries following a catastrophic explosion at an electrical substation on Old Howick Road this afternoon.
KwaZulu Private Ambulance responded to the emergency scene at approximately 12:00 PM, where paramedics were confronted with the devastating aftermath of the substation blast. The explosion left two contractors who had been working on the facility with life-threatening and serious injuries.
The first patient, found in critical condition, had sustained severe burns across their back and arms, requiring immediate Advanced Life Support intervention. The complexity of their injuries demanded intensive on-scene stabilisation by highly skilled paramedics who worked meticulously to secure the patient’s condition before transport.
A second worker sustained serious burn injuries to both arms in the violent explosion. Both patients received comprehensive emergency medical care at the scene, with paramedics implementing critical stabilisation protocols before safely transporting them to the hospital for specialised burn treatment and further medical care.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) and Fire Department responded alongside KwaZulu Private Ambulance, securing the scene and managing the emergency response. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation by relevant authorities.
The incident highlights the inherent dangers faced by electrical workers and contractors who maintain critical infrastructure. While the explosion created a dramatic emergency scene, there was no impact on traffic flow along Old Howick Road.
Both patients remain under medical care as they begin their recovery from this traumatic workplace incident.
