User:Seraphimblade/sandbox/O'Connor Electroplating disaster

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. 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.

Prior to disaster
(Business description)

(Chemist's falsified credentials)

(Chemicals used in process)

Explosion
(Chemical reaction)

(Killed/injured in blast)

(Property damage)

Aftermath
(Lawsuit against company)

(Coroner's inquests, findings of responsibility)

(City council requesting LAFD regulate hazardous chemicals)