The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service received a call at 8am this morning of a fire in a silo at James Jones’ timber systems division in Greyshop Industrial Estate.
Three fire appliances were sent to tackle the fire. The fire service said while firefighters were removing the contents of the silo, an explosion occurred, injuring three firefighters and four mill staff.
Police Scotland said one member of staff was flown by air ambulance to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary with serious injuries. Another member of staff was taken to hospital in Inverness for treatment, while two others with burn injuries were taken to hospital in Elgin.
Two firefighters with burn injuries were taken to hospital in Inverness, while a third firefighter received minor burns and did not require further treatment. Police Scotland has confirmed a joint investigation will be conducted involving itself, the fire service and the Health and Safety Executive.
James Jones released an initial statement confirming the incident at the Forres plant, which produces the JJI-Joist engineered joist product.
“At this stage we are waiting for detailed reports from the emergency and medical services and have no further comment to make, although obviously the welfare of our employees and the emergency services personnel is of paramount importance,” it said.
