THE HUIA EXPLOSION.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 30, Issue 21, 15 March 1918, Page 2

THE HUIA EXPLOSION.

' DUE TO SMOKING. From the evidence taken by Captain G. G. Smith, Superintendent of Mercantile Marine, concerning the recent explosion of benzine fumes on the steamer Huia, at Wellington, the Marine Department advises that it is clear that the explosion was duo to either the smoking of a cigarette or pipe, or the light from a match in proximity to the vessel's hold, either on the wharf or on the ship's deck. It is also proven that the aperature of the shaft, which is between the engineroom and the hold where the explosion occurred, is quite tight, and would not permit the escape of benzine fumes. There was no sign of the explosion in the engine-room, nor was the naked light affected, which was carried by a man who happened to be there at the time. It appears from certain statements made at the preliminary enquiry that there was a breach of the Harbour Board by-law No. 91, which reads: “No fire or light shall be burned, nor shall any person smoke on board of any vessel, boat, or lighter during the time dangerous goods are being carried, landed, discharged, or shipped, by, * from, or to such vessel, boat, or lighter.” <