Improperly discarded oxygen tank explodes inside Ohio garbage truck

WHITEHALL, Ohio (WOIO/TMX) - An improperly discarded oxygen tank caused an explosion inside a garbage truck in Ohio on Wednesday, city officials said.

The city of Whitehall on Thursday shared a video of the explosion, which occurred on the 4000 Block of Elbern Avenue.

The video shows two Local Waste Services employees overturning residential trash bins into the back of a garbage truck. The second worker empties a trash bin into the truck and is preparing to empty a second bin when the explosion sends debris flying at him as he quickly covers his head and tries to get away.

City officials said the explosion was caused by “an oxygen tank that was illegally placed in a garbage can.”

“Know the dangers! Hazardous & Explosive materials can be found in everyday items, so be aware of proper handling and storage,” officials said.

“We are very thankful the workers were not seriously injured in this senseless act,” the Whitehall Police Department said in a statement on social media.

Officials are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Whitehall Police Department at 614-237-6333.

TMX contributed to this report.