Investigation launched into recycling plant fire

Hazard identification methods may come under the spotlight as a result of an investigation that is being launched into how a fire was able to start at a recycling plant in the south of England.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service described the blaze at the battery recycling site as "small" and the clear-up operation is now underway, according to a report by BBC News.

A spokeswoman claimed that staff at the location had initially attempted to put out the flames themselves, but they had spread too quickly for them to cope.

"We are continuing to assist the Environment Agency in the safe removal of potentially contaminated water during the incident," she said.

The cause of the blaze is not thought to be suspicious and at its worst point, some 70 firefighters were at the scene battling the flames.

A fire risk assessment may be needed at the Biffa Waste Services facility in Newstead after BBC News recently reported a blaze at the site took 24 hours to put out.