Improper Oven Modification Leads to Explosion and Asbestos Release
Incident Investigation
Improper Oven Modification Leads to Explosion and Asbestos Release
January 1, 2025
Gas
Reference Number:
II-1817926-2025 (# 55737)
Location: Gibsons
Regulated industry sector: Gas
Incident overview
A commercial bakery oven that had been altered three weeks earlier released unburnt gas resulting in an explosion on startup. The explosion collapsed about 70 sq ft of ceiling, which released asbestos, and activated the fire suppression system, causing water damage. Contributing factors to this incident included improper pilot relocation to fit a shorter thermocouple and approximately 30% of air grills being blocked, which reduced airflow and allowed unburnt gas to accumulate before igniting.