Explosion at Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co

Explosion at Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co

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Date Photo Taken 30th March 1933
Area Mitcham
Copyright 1 Keystone View Company
Picture Reference Mit_​Org_​Events_​8-15
Original Format Photo
Notes / History Backs of houses in Belgrave Road following a chemical explosion at a perfume factory which operated under the name Potter and Moore. The factory was stationed on 3 acres of land behind Belgrave Road and the explosion, which was caused by methylated spirit boiling over, damaged over 200 houses.

During the 19th & early 20th century, Mitcham & Merton were home to a number of factories producing noxious and volatile substances from paint and varnish to chemicals and oils. These industries posed a double threat to public health in terms of pollution and injuries resulting from accidents.

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