MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A new video shows the moment a garbage truck exploded in Milwaukee, sending a sanitation worker to the hospital and raising concerns about the dangers of improperly disposing of pressurized canisters.

The explosion happened Wednesday morning near 9th and Abert Place as sanitation crews began their route. Officials say two oxygen tanks inside the garbage truck exploded as the trash was being compressed.

“As the garbage was being moved into the truck, under that pressure, there was an explosion,” said Rick Myers, Department of Public Works sanitation services manager.

Both workers were near the back of the truck when the blast happened. Myers said one worker suffered a concussion and shrapnel injuries. 

City of Milwaukee

“Both employees were at the rear of the truck at the time. One of them sustained injuries, concussion and shrapnel in multiple places,” Myers said.

The worker was taken to the hospital and is now doing well. Myers said doctors were able to remove shrapnel from the worker’s eye without causing further injury.

“Fortunately, they were able to remove the shrapnel from his eye without further injury,” Myers said.

Officials say pressurized canisters, including oxygen tanks, are not allowed in the trash because they can become explosion hazards when compacted.

Myers said this is the second explosion caused by improperly disposed tanks in the past two years.

“A lot of times there will be indication symbols telling you if something is hazardous,” Myers said.

Improper disposal can result in fines up to $5,000 and can cause serious injuries and property damage.

“Carelessness in that can cause danger and endanger somebody’s life or property,” Myers said. “We really want people to be more mindful of what they’re disposing of to make sure they’re using the proper channels.”

Where to safely dispose of tanks

Officials say compressed gas cylinders that are confirmed empty can be taken to these locations:

• Milwaukee Self Help Facility
  • 3879 W. Lincoln Avenue, Milwaukee
  • Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
  • 414-225-2066
• Northern Facility
  • W124 N9451 Boundary Road (124th Street), Menomonee Falls
  • Monday and Wednesday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Southern Facility
  • 10518 S. 124th Street, Franklin
  • Tuesday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Miller Compressing
  • 1900 W. Bruce Street, Milwaukee
  • 414-671-5980

For full, partially full or unknown tanks

• Set Environmental Inc.
  • 9730 S. 20th Street, Oak Creek
  • 414-761-9316