A major explosion at a fireworks factory in Malta has prompted the deployment of British safety experts, as authorities investigate the cause of the blast. The incident, which occurred in the town of Xagħra on the island of Gozo, sent a large plume of smoke into the sky and was felt across the surrounding area. Emergency services confirmed that at least one person has been killed and several others injured, with the death toll expected to rise.
British safety experts, part of a rapid response team from the UK’s Health and Safety Executive, have been dispatched to assist Maltese authorities in assessing the structural integrity of the destroyed facility and preventing further hazards. The factory, which was licensed to produce fireworks for local festivals, is believed to have been operating under safety regulations, though the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown. Malta has a long tradition of firework displays, particularly during the summer festa season, and accidents at such facilities have occurred in the past.
The Maltese government has pledged a full inquiry, while the British team will focus on supporting the investigation and ensuring compliance with international safety standards. This incident highlights the inherent risks of pyrotechnic manufacturing and the importance of robust safety protocols, even in well-regulated industries.
