The explosion in the Nypro factory at Flixborough, England on 1 June
1974 was a milestone in the history of the chemical industry in the UK.
The destruction of the plant in one almighty explosion, the death of 28
men on site and extensive damage and injuries, though no deaths, in the
surrounding villages showed that the hazards of the chemical industry
were greater than had been generally believed by the public at large. In
response to public concern the government set up not only an enquiry into
the immediate causes but also an ‘Advisory Committee on Major Hazards’
to consider the wider questions raised by the explosion. Their three
reports led to far-reaching changes in the procedures for the control of
major industrial hazards. The long-term effects of the explosion thus
extended far beyond the factory fence.