310
INQUIRY VERDICT
WEST POINT GASOMETER EXPLOSION
THEORY NOT UPHELD
The conclusion that the primary cause of the explosion at the West Point works of the Hongkong and China Gas Company two months ago was the failure of the side-sheeting on the gasometer was the most important feature of the verdict rendered by the special jury at the formal conclusion of the inquiry at the Central Magistracy yesterday.
The keen interest with which the inquiry, spread over seventeen hearings, has been followed in the Colony, was indicated by the crowded courtroom when the final proceedings opened.
Messrs. P. Tester (foreman), Mr. N. Drummond and Mr. L. Dunbar formed the jury, with Mr. E. W. Hamilton as Coroner.
Several recommendations were made regarding the inspection and sites of gasometers, and it was stated that the Jury rejected the theory that a missile was thrown at the holder.
The jury's verdict, in full, was:
"We are satisfied that the body was that of Chela Ram and that the cause of death was shock following severe and extensive burns. We return a verdict of Death from Misadventure.
"The original cause of the disaster was an escape of gas from the holder, due to the failure of the side sheeting.
"The side sheeting failed from wastage due to corrosion.
"We lean to the opinion that the original ignition was caused by sparks from the tearing of the plates as the gasometer fell. We are of opinion that there was later a minor explosion in the watchmen's hut and that gas did ignite No. 13, Chung Sing Street.
"We reject the theory that a missile was thrown at the gasometer and punctured it prior to the disaster.
GASOMETER PRACTICE
"From the evidence placed before us, we are satisfied that the gasometer was originally erected and subsequently maintained in accordance with the general practice of gas engineering. This practice, however, we are advised by expert witnesses, presages the life of a holder at 40 to 50 years without material examination. This may be satisfactory in temperate climates in cases where holders are reasonably isolated, permitting the safe dispersal of any leakage, and here the pressure of a gas alone need be considered. We suggest that steps should be taken to set a higher internal maintenance, especially including periodical internal examination.
"We are pleased to record that after the disaster the steps taken by the Gas Company, Police, Fire Brigade, Ambulance and voluntary workers were commendably satisfactory and prompt.
G.C.H. COMMENDED
"We are especially impressed by the manner in which the resources of the Government Civil Hospital were speedily mobilised to meet the rush of casualties and by the action of the Medical Officer in stationing someone at the entrance to the Hospital to administer opiates as patients arrived.