An investigation to determine the cause and impact of an explosion that claimed the life of one worker at Nova Feeds’ Malmesbury branch in the Western Cape, is underway. This follows the deadly explosion which occurred around 15:00 on Monday, 10 June 2024.
Shockwaves spread through the agricultural community of Malmesbury when an explosion at the Nova Feed premises in Bokomo Way occurred. Nova Feed, the animal feed division of Quantum Foods, is one of the oldest feed manufacturers in Southern Africa, with a total production capacity of approximately 62 500 tonnes per month.
The company produces feeds for livestock such as chickens, sheep, ostriches and cattle.
In its latest communication, Nova Feeds said, “The two injured individuals are still hospitalised, and they remain in a serious but stable condition. The Company will continue to provide the necessary support to the affected individuals and families during this difficult time.”
An engineer, appointed by Nova Feeds, is conducting an independent investigation to determine the cause and impact of the explosion.
“The investigations to determine the cause and impact of the explosion are still ongoing and the company is assisting the relevant authorities where needed. Further comments will be made after these investigations have been completed,” Nova Feeds said.
They added that they had already reported the incident to the department of labour.
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What really happened?
The incident, which Nova Feeds believes is not crime-related, claimed the life of one employee.
According to communication from Swartland Municipality, fire and rescue services responded immediately to the scene and treated three workers.
“The explosion occurred at a loading zone where raw material is offloaded. The municipal fire and rescue services contained the fire and extinguished it. Fire and rescue services concluded activity on the site at approximately 18:00,” Swartland Municipality said.
Nova Feeds said safety protocols were followed during and after the incident, and automated emergency equipment was successfully activated.
Damage to property limited
Meanwhile, physical damage at the property is limited to equipment at the raw material intake area. Currently, operating activities outside the affected area of the feed mill continue.
“Feed production operations continued during the night and as reported, damage was limited to the raw material intake area,” Nova Feeds said.
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