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User:Seraphimblade/sandbox/O'Connor Electroplating disaster

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The O'Connor Electroplating disaster was an explosion caused by an industrial accident at the O'Connor Electro-Plating facility on February 20, 1947 in Los Angeles, resulting in 17 deaths, 150 injuries, and damage to buildings for a four-block radius. Investigation of the incident determined that the explosion had been caused by improper handling and storage of chemicals which were used in the electroplating process.[1] The explosion led to greater city regulation and oversight by the Los Angeles Fire Department on potentially explosive or otherwise dangerous chemicals, which had previously been largely self-regulated by industries which used them.[2]

Prior to disaster

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(Business description)

(Chemist's falsified credentials)

(Chemicals used in process)

Explosion

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(Chemical reaction)

(Killed/injured in blast)

(Property damage)

Aftermath

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(Lawsuit against company)

(Coroner's inquests, findings of responsibility)

(City council requesting LAFD regulate hazardous chemicals)

References

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  1. ^ Rasmussen, Cecilia (17 August 1997). "Deadly Blast a Proving Ground for Live TV". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 14 April 2020.
  2. ^ "Bomb Safety Plan Drawn by Firemen". Los Angeles Times. 5 March 1949. p. 7. Retrieved 14 April 2020.