Traces of a pyrotechnic composition made from potassium perchlorate and aluminium exploded during disassembly of a jack screw support. The technician was loosening a fastening screw when a flash occurred along with a very loud sound effect, as initiated by rubbing during a maintenance operation. This pyrotechnic element had been preliminarily cleaned in a cursory fashion with water.

Experts have recalled the importance of ensuring prior to any disassembly step the complete decontamination of all machinery; moreover, if such a step cannot be guaranteed, then appropriate measures would need to be adopted to ensure the technician’s protection.