The Chinese capital was rocked by an explosion and fire at a chemical plant early Tuesday, injuring seven workers, local media reported. The blast occurred shortly after midnight at a subsidiary of the Beijing Dongfang Petrochemical Corporation, the Beijing Hua’er Company, which makes polyvinyl chloride polymer equipment. Clean-up crews spent all night dealing with remaining PVC residue and trying to cool down the surrounding equipment to prevent further explosions. Meng Fankui, deputy manager of the plant, said the seven workers received minor injuries caused by glass and flying debris and were being treated in a hospital. Meng added the fire caused by the blast had been brought under control. The cause of the accident is now under investigation. © Copyright 2005 by United Press International

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