A Tragic Start to the Trial

The trial has commenced for the individuals and company linked to a tragic explosion in Tuas, Singapore, that left three workers dead and several others injured. This harrowing incident occurred on February 24, 2021, at Stars Engrg's premises located at 32E Tuas Avenue 11.

Who's in the Hot Seat?

Stars Engrg, specializing in fire protection systems, faces significant charges under the Workplace Safety and Health Act due to alleged safety oversights. Chua Xing Da, the company’s sole director, and production manager Lwin Moe Tun are also facing charges for obstructing justice.

What Led to the Catastrophe?

An inquiry committee reported that inadequate safety measures contributed to the explosion. Stars Engrg was using a mixer machine to combine potato starch powder with heated water—a process crucial for manufacturing insulation materials known as 'fire clay.' The initial blast was caused by an oil jacket rupture, which ignited accumulated starch dust, leading to three devastating flash fires.

Warnings Ignored?

According to court documents, employees had previously noted that the mixer machine displayed signs of smoking and leaking, with minor fires occurring just hours before the fateful blast. In fact, just 12 days prior, a fire had to be extinguished by staff.

The Prosecution's Strong Case

During the trial, prosecutors painted a vivid picture of negligence, stating that Chua purchased the mixer from a Chinese supplier via Alibaba in August 2019. They allege that he and Stars Engrg mismanaged the machine, continuing to operate it despite numerous indications of danger.

What Went Wrong?

Key allegations against them include the improper use of thermic oil and a failure to monitor critical safety parameters. The prosecution emphasized that Chua and his team failed in their duty of care, neglecting to provide necessary training and safety protocols.

The Aftermath and Unraveling Evidence

In a shocking twist, the prosecution revealed Lwin Moe Tun allegedly attempted to delete a WhatsApp exchange with one of the deceased employees shortly after the explosion, potentially compromising the investigation.

Mourning the Victims of an Unimaginable Tragedy

The explosion claimed the lives of three workers: Bangladeshi nationals Anisuzzaman Md (29) and Shohel Md (23), and Indian national Subbaiyan Marimuthu (38). All three suffered catastrophic burns of over 90% body surface area. Five other employees sustained serious injuries, leaving them with significant burns and lasting disfigurement.

A Continuing Fight for Justice

Witnesses, including injured workers, are expected to testify as the trial progresses, which has profound implications for workplace safety in Singapore. The agony of the explosion resonates deeply, reminding all of the paramount importance of safety in every workplace.