The dust explosion at the Formosa Fun Park in Taiwan killed 8 people and injured 500. Over 150 people sustained serious burn injuries requiring skin grafts from the incident. This dust explosion occurred when colored corn starch that, was showered upon a crowd, found an ignition source near a stage area. The explosion and subsequent fire engulfed the crowd.
Safety Tips
The practice of using colored powders at social gatherings, such as coloring play parties and music events is becoming more prevalent. It's important to know, that if you engage in such activities, there are important safety tips to keep in mind:
Do not throw or cause large plumes of powder near open flames or pyrotechnics
Do not throw or cause large plumes of powder near open flame cooking appliances
Do not throw or cause large plumes of powder in a confined space, such as a room
Do not throw or cause large plumes of powder near a building's ventilation system
The area where plumes of powder are to be displayed should be posted as a no smoking area
The display of colored powders should not obstruct the viewing of exits or exit paths