The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has taken decisive action against Sethi Ferro Fabrik Incorporated, a steel factory located in Gardnerville, Monrovia, following a fatal oxygen explosion. The incident, which occurred on Monday, February 19, 2025, resulted in the death of a Liberian employee, Saah Samukai, and raised serious concerns about the factory’s safety practices. Preliminary investigations by the EPA revealed potential safety deficiencies at the facility, prompting the agency to immediately shut down the factory’s operations. Adding to the gravity of the situation, the EPA discovered that Sethi Ferro Fabrik had been operating without a valid license, further highlighting the company’s disregard for regulatory compliance.
The tragic explosion occurred while Samukai and three foreign workers were on duty. According to reports, Samukai was left alone to drill the oxygen plant, a task that ultimately led to the fatal accident. The ensuing explosion ignited a fire, resulting in Samukai’s immediate death. While the company acknowledges the fatality, they deny any other injuries occurred, contradicting reports from other sources suggesting additional workers were harmed. The EPA’s Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of ensuring workplace safety and holding companies accountable for neglecting safety protocols.
During an on-site inspection of the Sethi Ferro Fabrik facility, Dr. Urey pointed out several safety deficiencies, including the lack of proper fire extinguishing equipment. He stressed that such oversights are unacceptable, particularly when they result in the loss of life. He also highlighted the company’s significant investment in the plant and underscored the necessity of prioritizing safety measures alongside financial investments. The EPA’s swift action in shutting down the factory and launching a full-scale investigation sends a strong message about the agency’s commitment to upholding safety regulations and protecting workers’ rights.
The investigation into the explosion involves multiple government agencies, including the Liberia National Police (LNP), the Ministry of Labor, and the Liberia National Fire Service. This collaborative effort aims to determine the exact cause of the accident and assess the extent of Sethi Ferro Fabrik’s negligence. Furthermore, the Liberian House of Representatives has summoned key officials from the EPA, the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Commerce, the Bureau of Concessions, and Sethi Ferro Fabrik itself to appear before the plenary on February 25, 2025. This summons reflects the government’s seriousness in addressing the issue and ensuring accountability for the tragic loss of life.
Representative Ivar K. Jones, who initiated the summons, expressed his concerns about the recurring nature of industrial accidents in Liberia. He emphasized the constitutional right of all citizens to just and humane working conditions and urged the government to enforce stricter safety standards for all operating factories. Rep. Jones also raised questions about the EPA’s effectiveness in monitoring and enforcing environmental regulations, particularly in light of concerns raised by residents living near the steel factory. He stressed the importance of preventing future tragedies by implementing robust safety measures and holding companies accountable for neglecting their responsibilities.
This incident underscores a broader issue of industrial safety in Liberia and highlights the need for stronger regulatory oversight and enforcement. The death of Saah Samukai serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of neglecting safety protocols and the importance of prioritizing worker safety. The ongoing investigation and the House of Representatives’ intervention are crucial steps towards ensuring accountability and preventing future industrial accidents. The outcome of these proceedings will likely have significant implications for industrial safety regulations and enforcement in Liberia, hopefully leading to a safer working environment for all.
