
At least 13 people were injured due to a massive explosion at a chemical factory on Otto Volek Road in New Germany, west of Durban, on Tuesday.
The chemical manufacturing company, identified as Zeta Laboratories, was engulfed in flames as highly flammable substances combined with heavy winds made it nightmare for firefighters to battle the blaze.
Zeta Laboratories manager Nikesh Singh told TimesLIVE about 115 employees were on site when the fire started.
“We are not sure what the exact cause is and investigations are ongoing. We are a chemical company and we make cosmetics for other companies.”
Singh said at least two staff members had sustained “minor injuries” and had been transported to hospital.

Image: Sandile Ndlovu
Advanced life support paramedic Garrith Jamieson said at least 13 people sustained injuries and were transported to hospital.