Emergency services rushed to Kingston University’s Penrhyn Road campus on Friday evening (11 April) following an explosion in a research laboratory that left two students injured.
The incident occurred shortly after 5pm, prompting the swift arrival of two fire engines and an ambulance. According to London Fire Brigade, crews were called to the scene at 5.47pm and had the situation under control by 8.28pm.
Students Taken to Hospital
Two PhD students were treated at the scene by London Ambulance Service paramedics before being taken to hospital. Their injuries were described as minor, and both students are now reported to be recovering well.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade said:
“Firefighters responded to reports of an explosion in a laboratory on the Kingston University campus. Crews carried out operations to make the scene safe. Two students were treated on scene by the London Ambulance Service before being taken to hospital.”
University Response
Kingston University has since confirmed that the explosion occurred during a routine experiment which the students had conducted multiple times before.
In a statement, a university spokesperson said:
“There was an unforeseen minor incident in one of our research labs on our Penrhyn Road campus on Friday afternoon in which two PhD students suffered minor injuries.
Both students were wearing full PPE, and supervisors were present, ensuring the swift arrival of emergency services.
The students have since been treated for their injuries and are in good spirits.”
The university added that a full debrief has been carried out in response to the incident, with steps being taken to strengthen existing health and safety protocols.
“The safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” the spokesperson added.
Investigation Ongoing
While the explosion is being treated as an isolated accident, the university and emergency services are reviewing the incident to determine the precise cause and ensure no further risk.
The laboratory building was made safe, and no further injuries or damage to surrounding facilities were reported.
