An oil worker has been found dead following an explosion at a refinery.
The man, who has not been named, was working close to a crude oil distillation unit which caught alight then exploded at the Lindsey Oil Refinery.
More than 50 firefighters from Humberside Fire and Rescue Service were called to the plant where black smoke was seen billowing from burning crude oil.
Some 10 appliances were brought in to tackle the blaze.
People living in the area surrounding the plant in North Killingholme, North Lincolnshire, reported hearing the explosion.
Employees said the fire started in a superheated industrial heater close to where they walked to work.
In a statement oil company Total, which runs the refinery, said: “It is with deep regret that Total Lindsey Oil Refinery can confirm that there has been a fatality following the fire and explosion at 11.57.
“The deceased has yet to be formally identified. Formal investigations have been launched by the Police and the Health and Safety Executive. We are fully co-operating with these inquiries in order to understand exactly why this tragic incident occurred.”
Two people were treated for minor injuries following the blast. One was taken to the Diana Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby.
Humberside Police initially warned residents to stay indoors and keep their windows closed but people have since been told they can safely leave their homes. Police are now working with the fire service to determine the cause of the fire which has been extinguished.
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