57 dead in underground explosion - how the disaster happened

This is how the disaster took its course

But how did it come about? On that winter morning, mine gas had ignited underground, triggering the explosion. Because of the escaping gas, fresh air had to be continuously supplied to the mines, explains Neuber. However, the fan was out of order at the start of the shift.

As a result, a highly explosive mixture of methane and air had accumulated. Exactly how it ignited has never been fully explained. It is likely that a hewer tried to clean his gasoline safety lamp, opened it and caused the explosion, says Neuber.

The rescuers were presented with a picture of horror in the light of their lamps. Witnesses reported at the time that injured people were wandering around in the darkness among a number of dead bodies; the paths underground were blocked by the blast wave and deformed tracks. The seriously injured screamed horribly as they tried to help them. Their burns caused excruciating pain.

According to Neuber, safety regulations were tightened as a result of the mining accident. From then on, petrol safety lamps were reserved for certain specialists only, while the crews were equipped with electric lamps. "In addition, ventilators had to be kept running at all times in places where there was a tendency for mine gas to escape."