Explosion at Ohio Metal Factory

Risk Logic Inc. (RLI) is a consulting engineering company that provides Loss Prevention Services. Since 1997, we have been working in regions all over the world utilizing the most advanced and current standards.

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March 8th, 2023

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

On February 20th, a large explosion caused significant damage at a metal alloy factory in Bedford, Ohio. It took more than 60 first responders to help put out the flames and hot spots. The three-alarm blaze created smoke visible from miles away.

Image: Thick smoke rises from metal factory explosion site.

I. Schumann & Co is a fourth-generation, family-owned company that has been in business for over 100 years. The company recycles and trades a wide variety of scraps to generate brass and bronze alloys in block or pellet forms.

Image: I. Schumann & Co. gather outside the building for a group photo (2022),

The fire and explosion destroyed most of the 130,000 ft2 building. Debris was sent flying hundreds of feet into the air, damaging other local businesses and vehicles close by. The incident injured 13 employees, with one deceased.

The cause of the explosion is still unknown, but officials agree the source is most likely the building’s foundry, where molten metals are located. I. Schumann & Co. is working with OSHA and officials to investigate and search for answers to this tragic accident. The state Fire Marshall and ATF will be joining the investigation as well.

Image: Metal factory explosion and fire destroy the building, leaving only the frame and ductwork.

Risk Logic can perform property loss prevention inspections to help avoid a loss such as this one. The inspection would include an assessment of the adequacy of the fire protection systems, and the associated inspection, testing and maintenance programs. Please consider contacting our company for all your property loss prevention needs. Risk Logic can also provide information on helping to create an effective Business Continuity Plan (BCP) for your company.