Worker hurt after chemical mixing causes explosion at Waikiki hotel

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) responded to a report of an explosion that injured a worker at a Waikiki Hotel on Tuesday.

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HFD received a 911 call at 7:53 a.m. and responded to explosions reported at the Wayfinder Waikiki Hotel, located on Kalakaua Ave in Waikiki, with four units, including a HazMat unit.

The first unit arrived on scene at 7:58 a.m., established command, located the exact location of the reported explosions, determined that there was nothing actively exploding, isolated and evacuated the area.

Firefighters discovered an injured worker on the pool deck of the hotel and determined that the explosions were caused when the worker was mixing chemicals in the pump room of the pool while he was preparing to do pool cleaning tasks.

Firefighters initiated a medical assessment and performed basic life support care to the worker.

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Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived shortly after, and patient care was transferred.

EMS said the man, an adult, is in stable condition.

The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) was also on scene to control traffic in the area.

The HFD HazMat unit made entry to the pool pump room to obtain samples of the chemicals involved to assist with identifying the product. The HFD HazMat unit then contacted the appropriate agencies to manage chemical disposal and clean up.

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The area remained isolated, and custody of the scene was transferred to HPD.

No injuries were reported.