According to Taiwanese media reports, the bodies of the last three missing individuals have been found at the site of a golf ball factory fire in southern Taiwan. This tragic incident has raised the death toll to 10, with four of the victims being firefighters. The operator of the plant, Launch Technologies, is a major global supplier of golf balls.
The fire broke out on Friday and was accompanied by explosions that caused part of the building to collapse, trapping firefighters and workers under the rubble. Despite rescue efforts, it took until the next day to extinguish the fire completely. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
The Pingtung Technology Industrial Park, where the factory is located, witnessed this devastating event. Around 100 people were injured At that to those who lost their lives. The Labor Ministry has announced that it will conduct a workplace safety investigation into Launch Technologies and its parent company due to previous violations found during inspections.
Taiwan is recognized as a significant manufacturer of golf balls, supplying renowned brands such as Callaway, TaylorMade, Bridgestone, Mizuno, and Wilson. According to Launch Technologies Co.’s 2021 annual report, they shipped approximately 260 million golf balls last year – accounting for one-fifth of the global total. Moreover, around 80% of their sales are made in the United States.
Launch Technologies is listed on Taipei Stock Exchange and holds a prominent position within the industry. However, this unfortunate incident raises concerns about workplace safety within their facilities. The company’s connection with major brands makes it imperative for them to prioritize employee well-being and adhere strictly to safety regulations.
President Tsai Ing-wen personally visited Pingtung County on Saturday to meet with victims and their families affected by this tragedy. It is important for government officials to show solidarity during times like these and ensure that necessary measures are taken to prevent such incidents from occurring again in the future.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the importance of workplace safety and the need for constant vigilance. It is crucial for companies to prioritize the well-being of their employees and adhere to strict safety protocols. The investigation initiated by the Labor Ministry will hopefully shed light on any negligence or violations that may have contributed to this devastating fire.
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