A worker at the asphalt plant in Sancti Spíritus suffered severe injuries in a powerful explosion that occurred on the night of December 24, around 8:30 PM.
According to the local weekly Escambray, the cause of the explosion may have been a fire in one of the three tanks storing a liquid known as RC, which is used in asphalt production, although this has not been confirmed.
The injured worker is named Alexey Díaz Salas, 48 years old, who is currently hospitalized in critical condition at the Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial General Hospital.
Dr. Aliosky Polo Santana, the director of the institution, explained that the patient has suffered burns covering 50% of the upper body and a cranial trauma. "He is currently being evaluated by neurosurgeons, but the most concerning issue is the burns," he noted.
The efforts of the Fire Department led to the complete extinguishment of the fire, which was classified as large-scale.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Ávalo Jorge, head of the Department, the cause of the incident has not yet been determined. The most significant material damage is concentrated in the area of the burned tank, which affected the two adjacent tanks.
Leaders of the Party and the provincial and municipal government visited the site of the incident.
Built in 1948, the asphalt plant in Sancti Spíritus is the oldest in Cuba and is still in operation.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Explosion at the Asphalt Plant in Sancti Spíritus
What happened at the asphalt plant in Sancti Spíritus?
A strong explosion occurred at the asphalt plant in Sancti Spíritus on the night of December 24, resulting in serious injuries to a worker. The cause of the explosion has not yet been confirmed, but it is believed to have been due to a fire in one of the tanks storing the RC liquid used in asphalt production.
What is the health status of the worker injured in the explosion?
The injured worker, Alexey Díaz Salas, 48 years old, is in critical condition at the Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial General Hospital. He has burns covering 50% of the upper part of his body and a head injury. Doctors note that the burns are the most concerning aspect of his condition.
How has the Cuban government responded to the recent industrial accidents?
Despite the seriousness of recent industrial accidents, such as the one that occurred at the cement factory in Cienfuegos, the Cuban government continues to offer no effective solutions to improve workplace safety. Fatal work-related accidents have increased on the island, highlighting the urgent need for more stringent measures to protect workers.
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