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. |
