Residents of the Olaria neighborhood, in Salto (SP), had to leave their homes this Friday (13) after the huge explosion followed by fire that hit the Pyrozzar chemical products factory. Witnesses who were nearby reported moments of fear and running after the first explosions.
Rescue teams disagree on the number of injured, with at least seven people, including military police, firefighters and civilians.
On TV TEM, a resident reported that she heard the first explosion at around 9am and that, since then, residents had been trying to get help to deal with the situation.
According to her, there was concern about the possibility of a new explosion and the presence of chemicals at the site.
"We have been in this despair since 9 am, when we heard the first explosion. We went down and started asking for firefighters, asking for firefighters from another city, but it took a while. And the instructions were to leave, evacuate, but it is difficult because there is pasture, there are no people helping, the people are very desperate", he stated.
Residents near the site of the factory explosion in Salto (SP) were evacuated by the Fire Department — Photo: Reproduction/TV TEM
The fire started at the factory located close to Rodovia Prefeito Hélio Steffen (SP-75). The fire caused a series of explosions and mobilized teams from the Salto Fire Department and other cities.
Another resident of the region, Rafael Giponi, also reported having noticed the effects of the fire even though he was at home, close to the industry. "I live close to the place and you can smell paint in the air," he told TEM TV.
Residents near the site of the factory explosion in Salto (SP) were evacuated by the Fire Department — Photo: Reproduction/TV TEM
Injuries and care
The Government of São Paulo mobilized 60 firefighters and 22 vehicles to fight the large fire. Teams work to contain the flames, prevent the spread of fire and ensure the safety of the population around the incident.
Rescue teams disagree on the number of injured, with at least seven people, including military police, firefighters and civilians. The victims were taken to the Nossa Senhora do Monte Serrat Municipal Hospital, in Salto.
The Águia helicopter, from the Military Police, was also at the scene and landed on the factory grounds, from where it took off at around 12:10 pm. Avenida das Nações, where the company is located, was closed. Residents of nearby areas were instructed to leave their homes while teams worked to combat the flames.
Fire hits chemical factory in Salto — Photo: Arte / g1
About the company
Pyrozzar Indústria Química e Comércio Ltda. was created in July 1973 and has been operating in the chemical sector for over 50 years. According to information released by the company itself, the factory specializes in the production of industrial paints, varnishes, solvents, thinners and waterproofing agents.
The industry also works with the collection and reuse of chemical waste, such as paint sludge and contaminated solvents from other companies.
In a statement, Pyrozzar Pirosol confirmed the explosion at the industrial unit and is investigating the causes. He also said that the current priority is the safety and well-being of all employees, neighboring communities and control of the situation.
"Our technical team and the competent authorities are already working on site. All emergency protocols were activated immediately. The Fire Department is on site and the area has been isolated. We are providing full assistance to the employees directly involved and their families", says the company.
Witnesses report explosions during fire at factory in Salto — Photo: Reproduction/Personal archive
