Fears for missing worker after factory fire
A factory worker is missing after an out-of-control fire ripped through a paint factory in Melbourne’s southeast, with authorities still battling the blaze hours after it broke out.
More than 120 firefighters attended the scene, along with 40 appliances, after the Dandenong South factory caught fire about 12pm on Friday.
It led to the closure of Superior Dr and Hammond Rd, with authorities urging residents in the area to “immediately” seek shelter.
A Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) spokeswoman said crews were still on the scene battling the blaze.
Two firefighters have been treated for minor injuries and two factory workers were taken to hospital.
“FRV understands one factory worker may be unaccounted for,” the spokeswoman said.
“A watch and act advice message remains in place.”
Social media users captured pictures and footage of thick plumes of smoke coming from the blaze.
“Explosions and fire in Dandenong South, behind Ultra Fine Foods … at 12:10pm. Hope everyone is OK,” user Gavin posted to X (formerly Twitter) earlier in the afternoon.
Another X user said vehicles were attempting to get the fire under control but it appeared to have spread to other buildings in the vicinity.
Dramatic footage, uploaded by 3AW, captured some of the flames spilling over the building as one driver nervously stops to film the shocking scenes.
BREAKING: A factory is currently on fire in Dandenong South with reports of an initial explosion when it broke out. pic.twitter.com/KyURyOMjlB
— 3AW Melbourne (@3AW693) December 8, 2023
Multiple fire crews have been deployed to the scene.
A watch and act alert was earlier issued by Fire Rescue Victoria for the suburbs of Bangholme, Dandenong South and Lyndhurst.
“The fire is not under control. Strong winds are blowing smoke to the south of the fire,” the alert states.
“Anyone located in the industrial estate in Dandenong South surrounding the Hammond Rd area should take shelter indoors immediately.”
Superior Dr and Hammond Rd in Dandenong South have both been closed off due to the fire.
The alert urges anyone in the area to close exterior doors, windows and vents and ensure heating and cooling systems are turned off.
It also said to bring pets indoors and keep roads clear for emergency services.
