Explosion kills 13 workers

A MASSIVE explosion ripped through a fireworks factory in China yesterday killing at least 13 workers.

About 50 people were in the factory in the city of Yichun in Heilongjiang province when the blast struck. A total of 148 were injured by the blast, which could be felt up to four kilometres away.

Safety is lax at Chinese fireworks plants and accidents are common.

Dozens of people also die each year from unsafe handling of fireworks while celebrating weddings and traditional holidays.