OSHA, Fire Officials Investigate Explosion at Rhode Island Industrial Plant
An explosion and fire rocked an industrial site in East Providence late Wednesday. The blast occurred at Aspen Aerogels on Dexter Road at about 8:15 p.m.
Casualties and emergency response
About a dozen people suffered injuries in the incident. Aspen Aerogels said 11 employees were taken to local hospitals for evaluation.
East Providence Fire later reported all workers were released by 3 a.m. Thursday. Multiple nearby departments assisted at the scene.
- Central Falls Fire Department
- Cranston Fire Department
- Lincoln Fire Department
- Pawtucket Fire Department
- Providence Fire Department
- Seekonk (Massachusetts) Fire Department
- Smithfield Fire Department
What happened inside the plant
Fire Chief Michael Carey said the company dries a final insulation blanket in an oven. The explosion occurred during that drying process.
Former engineer Brian Sit described the product as aerogel. He called it a highly technical, glass-like insulation material.
Ongoing investigations and safety review
East Providence fire officials and the Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office opened inquiries. OSHA confirmed it has launched a separate investigation.
Local authorities said damaged sections of the building have been stabilized. A coordinated post-incident evaluation is now underway.
Scope of the review
The evaluation will assess affected areas and critical systems. It will also review response efforts and the facility’s emergency plans.
Officials plan to identify best practices and any response gaps. Operations at the plant remain paused until assessments finish.
Background safety records
OSHA records show prior citations at the facility. Those citations involved airborne chemical and dust exposure issues and respiratory protection.
Mayor Bob DaSilva acknowledged the explosion and the community’s shock. Neighbors reported feeling the blast and hearing rattled windows.
Filmogaz.com will monitor developments as local fire officials and federal investigators continue their work. Authorities have not yet released a final cause.
