The blast occurred on Thursday afternoon at the Thai Nguyen Construction Materials Joint Stock Company, which specialises in producing concrete in Thai Nguyen City’s Quan Trieu Ward.

The two victims were identified as Nguyen Thi Thu, 48, and Dang Quang Ngọ, 26. The other victims suffered burn injuries.

The explosion destroyed the company’s roof and its concrete pillars.

The impact of the explosion also affected a nearby construction site. Rocks, material, concrete and boiler accessories shot out and landed some tens of metres away.

Following the incident, provincial leaders, relevant authorities and the company implemented remedial work and are investigating the cause of the blast. 

They also visited and boosted the morale of the injured, who are being treated at the provincial Central Hospital.

The provincial People’s Committee provided compensation worth VNĐ3 million (US$135) to the injured and VNĐ5 million ($220) to the families of the dead victims.