Mobile phones can spark an explosion

Another fireworks factory tragedy has occurred and investigations are underway to find the cause.

Malta has a very high ownership of mobile phones, probably in the high 90 percentages. Are people aware that when a mobile is switched on, but not in use, it is still “live” and producing a spark internally?

Having been a master on oil tankers for more than 30 years, I have visited many oil refineries and oil storage depots. Besides surrendering matches and cigarette lighters before entering these installations it is also a requirement to surrender mobile phones, unless certified intrinsically safe.

I have little doubt that lighters and matches are deposited in a “safety box” before entering fireworks factory sites but how about mobile phones?

These are a serious and proven cause of ignition. I have lost count of the number of filling stations where people, including attendants, were using their mobiles while refuelling.

There has been more than one fire and explosion caused by this ignorance.

I suggest that better signage is placed at filling stations and certainly not allow mobile phones on fireworks factory sites.