What welding and heat-insulation modifications did the company fail to seek advice on?

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Company Failed to Seek Manufacturer's Advice on Welding and Heat Insulation Modifications

A Singaporean firm was fined S$500,000 and one of its directors received an 18-month jail sentence for workplace safety failures that led to a fatal 2021 explosion. The company, Stars Engrg, failed to consult the manufacturer before undertaking welding repairs and modifying the machine's heat insulation system. These actions, among other safety lapses, contributed to an explosion at an industrial plant in Tuas that resulted in three worker fatalities and seven serious injuries.
Welding Repairs Undertaken Without Consultation

The court heard that Stars Engrg proceeded with welding repairs on the machinery without first seeking guidance from the manufacturer. This occurred despite the company experiencing repeated technical issues with the equipment. The director, Chua Xing Da, made operational decisions based on his own assumptions rather than consulting the manufacturer, who had indicated a willingness to provide technical assistance.
Heat Insulation System Modifications Made Without Expert Input

In addition to welding, the company also modified the machine's heat insulation system without obtaining advice from the original manufacturer. Investigations revealed that the mixing machine had been operated unsafely over a prolonged period, exhibiting warning signs such as overheating and oil leaks. These modifications, coupled with other operational errors, contributed to the severe incident.
Broader Safety Failures and Consequences

The incident, which occurred on February 24, 2021, involved a heated mixing machine operating unsafely. The resulting explosion led to the deaths of three workers from extensive burns. Seven other individuals sustained serious injuries. An inquiry committee concluded that the explosion was preventable and stemmed from significant failures in the operation and maintenance of the mixing machine, as well as inadequate controls for combustible powders that fueled secondary fires.

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What welding and heat-insulation modifications did the company fail to seek advice on?

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