What started as a routine spray-foam job in Hudson turned into a terrifying fire event Saturday afternoon when a sudden flashover ignited inside an enclosed space, seriously injuring two men, according to Pasco deputies.
The incident happened around 2 p.m. while the men were spraying foam insulation in a confined area, deputies said. In a matter of moments, the space filled with fire, and both workers had to be airlifted to hospitals for emergency care. Deputies called the injuries accidental and said investigators were on scene working the case.
According to WTSP, the Pasco County Sheriff's Office said the men were applying spray foam inside an enclosed area when the flashover erupted. Both were flown by helicopter for advanced treatment, the sheriff’s office told the station, while investigators stayed on site to figure out what triggered the blaze.
What Is A Flashover?
A flashover is the near instantaneous ignition of hot gases and combustible surfaces inside a confined space, the kind of rapid transition that can turn a room into a fully involved fire in seconds. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, flashovers happen when temperatures and smoke layers reach ignition levels and they can arrive with little warning. Training materials from FireEngineering note that flashovers are a major cause of severe burn injuries for anyone inside a compartment.
Spray Foam Can Increase Risk Without Barriers
Spray polyurethane foam can generate flammable gases and increase the amount of combustible surface area if it is left exposed, which can speed up fire growth in tight spaces. The Florida Building Code generally calls for a 15 minute thermal barrier or an approved ignition barrier over exposed foam in many attic and living space installations. Industry guidance also notes that intumescent coatings or other approved coverings are often used in place of drywall to satisfy code and reduce the chance of rapid fire spread, according to SprayFoam Magazine.
Investigation And Next Steps
Pasco deputies said they were continuing to examine the scene to see whether equipment, procedures or other factors played a role, according to WTSP. The sheriff's office had not yet released the injured men's names or the hospitals where they were taken at the time of the report. Officials asked anyone with information to contact the Pasco County Sheriff's Office while investigators finish their work.
This story will be updated if authorities release additional details. Homeowners and contractors are reminded to follow local code requirements for thermal or ignition barriers when using spray foam insulation in enclosed spaces.
