Plumber burnt in gas bottle blow-up

The plumber was flown to hospital after suffering extensive burns. Source: News Limited

A PLUMBER has suffered severe burns following a gas explosion at a Mornington Peninsula school this afternoon.

The man in his 50s received flash burns to his face, arms and legs when the incident happened while he was working at Red Hill Consolidated School.

It is understood the victim, who was engaged by the school, was working on the hot water service and purging gas lines when the system ignited.

Paramedics, fire crews and police were called to the Arthurs Seat Rd school about 5pm.

Ambulance Victoria spokeswoman Lisa Hind said the plumber was flown to The Alfred hospital in a serious condition.

Principal Leanne Marshall said the school communitys thoughts were with the injured man.

She said while some students in after-school care were playing on the oval, the majority of staff and students had left for the day.

Students didnt witness the incident but some are understandably shaken. Weve arranged for specialist counselling support to be available at our school from tomorrow for any student who may need it, Ms Marshall said.

She said the building in which the explosion occurred was deemed safe and has since been cordoned off.

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Plumber burnt in gas bottle blow-up