PINGTUNG (TVBS News) — An explosion at a factory of the Launch Technologies Co. Ltd., a golf ball manufacturer in Pingtung Technology Industrial Park, on Friday (Sept. 22) has resulted in hundreds of casualties. The company has yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the blazing fire.
Launch Technologies, founded on July 28, 2006, and officially listed in 2014, is a major name in golf ball manufacturing. It accounts for roughly 20% of the global golf ball market, with every second ball exported domestically identified as its product.
The company reportedly employed approximately 680 people, with a capital of around NT$520 million.
According to its annual report, the firm shipped approximately 21.7 million packets of golf balls last year, marking a 20% increase and a company record.
Following last night's explosions, allegations of labor law violations and poor working conditions have plagued the company. One former worker claimed he only received a base salary of NT$21,150 and was forced to work overtime. Five employees also accused Launch Technologies in 2011 of working long hours.
Launch Technologies yet to issue statement on factory blast
Launch Technologies yet to issue statement on factory blast (TVBS NEWS)