At 12:20, the Fire Department responded to a report of a small explosion at “Jay’s Food Market” located at 487 East Main St.
Upon arrival Deputy Chief Thomas Mahoney determined there was no ensuing fire, however, two workers were slightly injured and required medical attention. Medic-1 and Medic-2 along with Engine-1 responded to the incident and assessed the two individuals along with determining any additional hazards.
Deputy Chief Mahoney alerted DEEP to respond to the incident and Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal Heffernan began to investigate the scene.
Heffernan stated “Workers were in the process of removing two underground gasoline storage tanks when the accident occurred."
The workers were using a saw to cut the tank in order to further clean it for removal. Heffernan stated this is a standard practice in the industry, however, apparently measures taken to ensure no fire or explosion did not work in this case. Heffernan stated he will be investigating further along with the DEEP and representatives from OSHA.
The two injured workers refused further treatment and were not transported to the Hospital.
Fire Department personnel used foam to further abate any hazardous fumes and to make the situation stable for the immediate future. Assistant Chief Heffernan and DEEP representatives are formulating a plan of action for the safe removal of the tanks at a later date. The tanks will be recovered until a safe plan of action is put into place.
Information courtesy of the Branford Fire Department
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
