JEFFERSONTOWN, KY -- A dust explosion and fire at Universal Products, a supplier of UV/EB-cured wood panel products, injured two company employees at approximately 3:50 p.m. on June 23.

The two injured workers were using a metal rod to unclog the dust collection filter when it apparently touched something causing a spark and triggering an explosion and resulting fireball that blasted more than 50 feet into the air, according to the Louisville Courrier, quoting local fire officials.

The workers were transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor burns, the newspaper said. In addition, a UPS driver who was in the Universal Woods' parking lot, reportedly declined treatment for an unspecified injury.

Some 60 employees working in the facility that makes finished panels for furniture, cabinets and other wood products, were evacuated.

The blast blew out vents designed to relieve pressure and avert a bigger dust collection explosion. Damage was estimated at $20,000.

Posted by Rich Christianson