Water Sector News
A snapshot of clean water stories from publications around the country, updated daily!
Dust to blame for March explosion and fire at Back River Wastewater Treatment Facility
An investigation by the Baltimore City Fire Department found that the March explosion at the Back River Wastewater Treatment Facility, which sits in the unincorporated community of Dundalk, was caused by dust that ignited in a sewer sludge dryer.
The findings, which were first reported by The Baltimore Sun, also ruled that the explosion was “accidental” — which occurred after sparks from the ignited dust then ignited the thermal oil, as well. That part of the facility turns sewage sludge into dry fertilizer pellets and is operated by the private contractor, Synagro. The report also mentioned unspecified “poor housekeeping” in a separate part of the facility but said “No signs or sources of ignition were observed in this area that would have contributed to the ignition of this fire.”