Investigation into Fatal Bangkok Bar Fire Uncovers Safety Failures
Authorities in Thailand are examining whether negligence played a role in a devastating fire at a Bangkok bar that resulted in the deaths of 30 individuals. The investigation has revealed that some exits were locked and there was a lack of emergency signage, according to survivors. Additionally, the use of flammable materials for decoration is suspected to have accelerated the fire's spread, which started near the stage, police reported.
Police General Kittiratt Phanphet commented on the situation, highlighting the lack of precautionary measures and concern for the patrons' safety. The blaze not only led to a significant loss of life but also left many others injured. Initial reports indicate that many victims were found in the restrooms at the back of the bar, possibly attempting to escape.
Details of the Incident
As of Tuesday morning, authorities have identified 27 of the deceased. In total, over 70 people sustained injuries, with 24 in critical condition. Preliminary findings suggest that the fire may have been sparked by an electrical short circuit in an air conditioner, leading to a power outage across the establishment. Patrons described the bar as dimly lit, even before the fire occurred.
Phatsara Khamloet, a recent visitor to the bar, described navigating a "winding route" to reach the restroom and noted the inadequate marking of exits. Similarly, Busakorn Saensuk from the Engineering Institute of Thailand pointed out that the door near the restrooms was locked, and entrance doors were partially blocked by furniture.
Busakorn further explained that the instinct for patrons would have been to flee towards the back of the bar, but they encountered barriers once they arrived there. She suggested that had emergency signs been illuminated, they might have been able to unlock the door.
Fire Safety Concerns
The stage area was reportedly decorated with highly flammable items such as plastic flowers, with combustible foam covering the ceiling. Survivors recounted how the stage was rapidly consumed by flames. Tragically, two members of the performing band, Thotsakan, were among those who lost their lives.
Structural engineering professor Worsak Kanok Nukulchai noted that toxic smoke inhalation might have been a significant cause of fatalities, as the burning materials likely produced harmful gases like carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide.
The venue was registered as a "restaurant with live music" rather than an "entertainment venue," which exempted it from using fire-resistant materials, confirmed Bangkok authorities. In response, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is reevaluating the regulations regarding materials used in the construction and decoration of such venues.
Owner's History and Regulatory Review
According to PBS Thai, the bar owner previously operated another pub in Yasothon province, which also experienced a fire in December 2019, although it resulted in no casualties as it occurred during the day.
The authorities are now considering changes to ensure stricter safety standards across similar establishments, aiming to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
Source: Original Article
