Fire during roof work damages GEOMAR extension building
According to initial information, a craftsman was slightly injured
A fire with smoke clouds developed today during roof work above the planned main entrance to the new extension building of GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel on Kiel's eastern shore. Gas cylinders are suspected as the reason for an explosion audible beyond the Seefischmarkt. A roof worker was hospitalized with shock and minor injuries. Beyond that, no one was harmed in the incident. Firefighters were able to quickly rescue the workmen from the roof. The building had not yet been occupied by the GEOMAR scientists.
The fire damaged the facade and some windows. A spread of the fire into the interior of the building could be prevented, so that mainly smoke damage occurred there.
The causes of the fire have not yet been conclusively determined. Construction work is currently stopped for the investigation of the fire department, police and the prosecutor's office.
"The most important thing is that no one was seriously injured. We wish everyone involved to recover well from the incident. We thank the emergency services for their quick, prudent and professional intervention," says GEOMAR Director Professor Dr. Katja Matthes with relief. "We support the clarification of the incident to the best of our ability and hope that the GEOMAR extension building can be reopened soon," adds Administrative Director Frank Spiekermann.
