Ten days after the explosion at the Miellerie du Salagou laboratory, the origin of the disaster remains unexplained

Monday, October 28, around 11:30 a.m., an explosion blew out part of a building in the production laboratory of the company Apimab Laboratories (Propolia), better known under the trade name Miellerie du Salagou, located on Avenue du Lac. A fire followed by an explosion ravaged the interior of the honey house, causing considerable damage. Seven employees present were taken care of by the numerous emergency services responding to the scene. The fire, which was brought under control by employees before emergency services arrived, caused seven minor injuries. Three employees were examined on site for superficial injuries, while four others were evacuated to hospitals in Clermont-l'Hérault and Montpellier for medical examinations.

Material damage and safety measures

Under the effect of the blast, the exterior walls made of cellular concrete placed on a metal frame collapsed onto the cars parked nearby, while part of the ceiling and roof were ripped open. Given the extent of the damage, compromising the safety of people, the mayor issued an extremely urgent security order that same day, prohibiting access to the building and the immediate surroundings.

Only part of the laboratory is affected

The next day, Tuesday October 29, a new urgent security order, still in progress, was issued to refine the access bans. A week later, on Monday November 4, reached by telephone, Dorothée Bouche, marketing manager of Apimab, described the incident as “technical”, specifying that the expertise is still in progress and that the reasons for the explosion remain blurry. Team members were emotionally affected, although without physical injury. Some benefited from two days of sick leave due to emotional shock and medical checks. Only part of the laboratory was affected, less than 500 m², and production continues in the areas in good condition, which makes it possible to avoid technical unemployment. The stock and the store, located in another building, suffered no damage and remain open to customers.

Ongoing investigation and initial leads

The origin of the explosion therefore remains to be determined, as do the products and energy involved that could explain such a blast. The first elements suggested that the explosion occurred in the production unit and could result from a physical reaction due to dust (propolis?) during the startup of a machine. However, investigations will have to confirm this.