According to reports, quick action by firefighters and efficient response by local utilities prevented a more serious outcome after a molten glass spill at the Johns Manville, Richmond, USA facility on Friday 20th April 2012.

The company, which makes building insulation and commercial roofing, melts glass before spinning it into thin strands for use as insulation.

Richmond Fire Department Chief Mike Crawley said a fire was caused when an elbow joint on a hopper came loose, spilling molten glass inside the facility.

Damage to the building has not yet been assessed and utilities at the facility remain shut down until it has been declared safe.