An SHE advisor on the Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP) was one of the first on the scene following a recent gas explosion which rocked a home in Whitehaven.
John Dunleavey, an SHE Advisor for Severfield, part of our supply chain, credits his military background and PPP safety training for helping him stay calm as he assisted those affected.
He was at home on New Year’s Eve, when a gas explosion at a nearby property on Hugh Street in Bransty, seriously injured three people and left the property gutted.
The blast shattered windows, triggered car alarms, and left the street in chaos. Families in nearby homes were evacuated as emergency services worked to secure the area and assist those affected.
On the scene of gas explosion
John said: “I don’t live far from the incident, and when the bang went off, I knew it was something serious, I saw a plume of dust and ran down to the scene.”
When he arrived, John found the street in disarray, with people running around in shock.
“The first thing I asked was, ‘Is anyone still inside?’ Nobody knew for sure, so without hesitation, I went in.
“I couldn’t see much at first, but then I spotted an arm moving under the rubble.
“We started clearing debris and managed to get the man out. He was conscious but clearly in shock.
After moving the man to safety, John learned that two women were still trapped upstairs. However, the staircase had been destroyed.
“I shouted to them, asking if they were okay. One of them responded, but there was nothing more I could do until emergency services arrived. I reassured them help was on the way.”
Relying on experience
John said his Army background and safety training were key in the situation – but it did bring back some difficult memories from his time in Afghanistan.
“It’s instinct. After nearly 28 years in the Army, you’re drilled to act when someone needs help. Nobody gets left behind. I didn’t think twice about going in.
“I’ve suffered from PTSD. Being in that house triggered some of those feelings, but I focused on the people who needed help.”
The incident reinforced John’s belief in PPP’s Knowingly Safe 24/7 ethos.
“A lot of people stood outside, unsure what to do. It’s about having the confidence to act when it matters most.
“PPP’s Knowingly Safe 24/7 culture is all about that, knowing your surroundings, having the courage to care and looking out for others.”
John’s actions made a life saving difference, showing the true meaning of Knowingly Safe 24/7, protecting others both insides, and outside, of work.