St Marys Chemical Fire

With news of the chemical fire in St Marys, West Sydney, our thoughts are with the workers, residents, businesses and first responders.

Factory Fire, St Marys

Incidents such as this chemical fire are a harsh reminder about the serious risks associated with hazardous chemicals and the importance of safe storage, handling and emergency preparedness.

The major industrial fire occurred in a commercial recycling plant in Sydney’s west on the 4^th of February 2025.

With flames reaching 60m into the air and multiple explosions onsite, firefighters had to reposition due to the extreme heat and explosions. The fire was upgraded to a 14^th alarm which is the highest available level for a fire emergency.

More than 20 fire trucks attended the scene and up to 100 premises in Sydney’s west were evacuated due to the fire incident.

Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (drone) technology has assisted fire crews in managing the blaze at the St Marys waste facility.

St Marys Fire Rescue has shared video of the fire, urging residents to avoid Christie Street and stay indoors, so toxic fumes are not inhaled.

It has been reported that LPG gas, a flammable gas, is stored at the site. The risk of further explosions, due to the storage of LP gas, is a threat to fire crew and the community. 

Channel 9 also reported that neighbouring industrial sites carry lithium-ion batteries, which can increase the threat of the current fire.

Impact of Chemical Fires

While the cause of the industrial fire is still being investigated by authorities, the impact is clear. A workplace lost, livelihoods disrupted, and communities exposed to toxic smoke.

It’s a confronting moment for all of us in the dangerous goods industry.

Although the fire has now been contained and the evacuation order lifted, the NSW Environmental Protection Authority will continue monitoring smoke dispersion and contaminated water runoff.

Chemical Fire Sydney 

At Storemasta, we approach risk management by understanding that chemical safety is not just about compliance, it’s about protecting people, businesses, and the environment.

This Sydney fire reinforces the need for stringent risk assessments, proper chemical storage solutions, and emergency planning to prevent incidents before they happen.

When working with flammable chemicals, such as gas or Class 3 substances, the need to understand the implications of ignition and fire risk are paramount. This requires a comprehensive approach to dangerous goods management from the clear identification and documentation of substances right through to the regular training of staff and emergency preparedness.

Strategies to Prevent Workplace Fires

We encourage all businesses handling hazardous substances to review their safety measures, engage with experts, and ensure they have the right controls in place. If you’re unsure whether your storage, spill containment, staff training and other systems meet safety standards, now is the time to act.

Dangerous goods awareness and risk management can help prevent future disasters and protect workplaces from the real hazards of onsite chemicals.