TAIPEI (TVBS News) — After a tragic explosion at a golf ball manufacturing factory in Pingtung, Taiwanese authorities are intensifying efforts to review workplace emergency procedures and regulations. The incident, which occurred at the Launch Technologies facility, has raised concerns about the readiness of businesses to respond to emergencies.
During the incident, employees failed to react promptly to the alarm, with reports coming in 20 minutes after the fire started. Furthermore, the company did not provide adequate information about the on-site chemicals, placing first responders at risk.
Chen Chih-pin, the head of the Industry Development Division under New Taipei's Economic Development Dept., explained, "We will review the items factories declare and, based on their declarations, assess whether the quantities and supporting measures align."
According to data from New Taipei City, out of 200 factories that submitted declarations, 30 to 40 are randomly selected for inspection every six months. However, these measures have proven imperfect, as two factories were fined for submitting false declarations in the first half of 2023.
Experts emphasize that higher-risk facilities should adhere to stricter equipment and storage standards. Yet, they point out that violators may go unnoticed if their declarations do not meet inspection standards.
"Enterprises are rapidly evolving, encompassing advancements in chemical materials and manufacturing processes," Taiwan Association of Disaster Prevention Industry supervisor Shan Hsin-yu said.
He added, "Consequently, despite existing laws and regulations, they struggle to keep pace with these changes."
"Also, enterprises prioritize profitability and consider associated costs."
The explosion in Pingtung has shed light on the need to update outdated inspection standards. Authorities are now focusing on intensifying inspections of disaster prevention equipment and safety measures to ensure safer working environments for employees in the future.
