Unite regional secretary for the south west Steve Preddy said: “We can confirm that Unite has three members working at Wessex Water Services Ltd in Avonmouth.

“We have contacted them this afternoon and they are, thankfully, uninjured, although in a state of shock.

“Unite will be giving our members maximum support in the days and weeks ahead.

“Unite the union would wish to extend its deepest sympathy to the families of those employees who have lost their lives and as well as those injured in the explosion – our thoughts and solidarity are with all those affected by this tragic event.

“Unite would also like to thank the emergency services for their rapid, brave and professional response to this major incident.

“There will, in due course, be an investigation into this incident and Unite will contribute to any such inquiry.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

For more information please contact Unite senior communications officer Shaun Noble on 020 3371 2060 or 07768 693940. Unite press office is on:  020 3371 2065.

Please note the numbers above are for journalists’ enquiries only.

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @unitetheunion Facebook: unitetheunion1 Web: unitetheunion.org 

Unite is Britain and Ireland’s largest union with members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Len McCluskey.