ESB explosion ‘not due to human error’

ESB investigators have ruled out human error in the explosion which killed two workers at the Tarbert generating station last month. But initial investigations have failed to establish the cause of the fire and explosion in the Co Kerry station.

A briefing report for the ESB’s workforce disclosed: “Due to the extensive damage in the switchgear cubicle, it has proved difficult to pinpoint the cause of the accident.”

The specialist ESB team which carried out the internal inquiry is continuing its investigation. The company’s final report on the Tarbert tragedy is expected within a matter of weeks.