Lapua Munitions Factory Resumes Loading After Explosion, Safety Scrutiny Continues

After a three-month hiatus caused by an explosion on April 13, the Lapua munitions factory has restarted its rifle and pistol cartridge loading operations. The resumption is under a temporary permit, with operations running at reduced capacity in temporary facilities.

Vaasa labor safety authorities inspected the temporary loading site on Monday. While the factory representatives claim the only remaining issue was the type of work clothing worn by employees, authorities reportedly still considered the quantities of gunpowder and the number of personnel in the same hall to be excessive. New safety protocols are being implemented, requiring workers to wear cotton overalls without pockets and non-metallic footwear like clogs or rubber slippers to minimize ignition risks.

Gunpowder is now filled by a technician who measures approximately two kilograms at a time from a glass jar. Two technicians handle the filling process, while a third transports the gunpowder from storage. The use of glass jars is a specific safety measure, as they do not create sparks when broken and do not generate static electricity, unlike other materials.