Colored Powder Warnings

Taiwanese Fun Park Incident


The 2015 explosion and fire at a Taiwanese Fun Park has brought to light possible hazards associated with large displays of colored powders.

Hazardous & Fatal Consequences With Displays


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.
Four colored powder piles in a row

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