Fire System Activation Kills Eight In Thai Bank Headquarters
Fire System Activation Kills Eight In Thai Bank Headquarters
A contractor hired to improve the fire extinguishing system at Siam Commercial Bank’s head office in Bangkok activated the system with staff inside, asphyxiating eight and injuring another seven staff. In a press statement , the SCB said the accident happened because a contractor activated a pyrogen aerosol fire suppressant system, which depleted oxygen and led to the deaths.
Local media reported thick smoke coming out of the basement of the bank’s head office on Ratchadaphisek Road while the rescue operation was delayed due to its security system.
“From the preliminary investigation by the police, the incident may have been caused by the negligence of contractors who were hired to make additional improvements to the building’s fire security system,” the bank said, adding: “The Bank would like to express our deep regret for those affected, especially those injured and those who lost their lives during this unfortunate incident. The Bank will provide initial assistance as deemed appropriate.”
The bank announced on March 14 that the headquarters building was now operating as normal.