On Thursday 7 July Thales personnel in Hengelo was alarmed by a fire in the section of the Environmental Competence Centre (ECC) that houses the climate rooms. Nobody sustained physical injury. According to the latest information the fire was started at two o'clock by an explosion, but prior to this explosion a major smoke emissions was reported. Immediately after the first smoke alarm the surrounding buildings were evacuated. The fire brigade of Hengelo was present with four fire engines to fight the fire. After a precautionary warning that hazardous materials might be released, the fire brigade could soon retract this warning. There was never any risk for anyone in the vicinity. At four in the afternoon the fire was under control. Except for the ECC staff, everyone could continue his regular activities.

The fire was probably started by a generator that was tested in the building. After the explosion, a part of the building was expected to come down. This made it impossible to enter the building and fight the fire. It was then decided to make a hole in the wall through which the extinguishing activities could be continued. At present, everyone is working hard to resume the regular services on climatologic, mechanic and EMC/EMI testing as soon as possible. The ECC activities will be continued first for Thales in Hengelo and then to external customers.