A strong explosion occurred during the compression of a 1.5-kg pyrotechnic composition made from potassium and barium nitrates, aluminium and black powder wetted in water. The press, placed in the unit, was automatically fed by a hopper. Friction at this level due to poor maintenance of the machinery caused this deflagration. All lighter weight parts of the unit were destroyed and equipment was degraded. The adjacent units were slightly damaged.

Additional testing on this composition demonstrated that its critical explosion height was in fact very low (10 cm) and moreover that the wetting step did not flegmatise the composition. Experts have highlighted the importance of in-depth knowledge on implemented products as well as on preventive installation maintenance.