Mall gas blast probe continuing

2012-02-22 13:10

Johannesburg - Progress is being made in the investigation into the cause of an apparent gas explosion at a Kempton Park restaurant, gas supplier Afrox and Famous Brands said on Wednesday.

The explosion at the Mugg & Bean restaurant in the Festival Mall, in which three workers were critically injured, happened earlier this month.

"The current phase of the investigation involves interviewing witnesses, studying CCTV footage and conducting a forensic explosion investigation," the companies said in a joint statement.

They said they were working closely with the Ekurhuleni fire department, the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Safety Association and the department of labour.

"The safety of our customers and staff is paramount at all times in our operations," said Famous Brands chief executive Kevin Hedderwick.

He said the process was comprehensive and once all the reports had been finalised a further announcement would be made.

Afrox managing director Brett Kimber said the company was keen that the investigation be finalised as soon as possible.

"We are confident that the department of labour is making headway in this regard," he said.

Afrox spokesperson Del-Maree English said the three workers critically injured in the blast were still in intensive care, but that they had been taken off the danger list and were receiving rehabilitative treatment.

At least 20 other people sustained minor injuries in the explosion, which happened near the kitchen of the restaurant.

- SAPA