The Blast of Centralia No.5

The Blast in Centralia No.5 highlights multiple failures in Public Administration, on March 25, 1947; a deadly coal mine explosion rocked the calm, peaceful town of Centralia, IL. During World War II, this mine provided coal to the war effort. A charge ignited built-up coal dust and caused the explosion. This explosion should have come to a surprise, many public sector safety professionals from state and federal agencies knew of the hazards as a result of inspections, union complaints and letters to state officials. The same safety professionals had notified various officials of mine safety agencies and the mine company of the hazards on more than one occasion. Officers of the mine’s union had also pressed for the hazards to be corrected. Failure to take action to stop the hazards resulted in the loss of 111 hard-working men who had spent much of their lives mining coal.

Four Logistical alternatives Scanlan could have addressed are corruption, communication, time and responsibility.

Inspector Scanlan worked during a period where corruption was as the norm. People in position of leadership in government were easily bought by business trying to push their agenda. The mine owners made friends in the government by putting money in the pockets of those in leadership positions. Some inspector’s would even party with the mine owners. Inspector Scanlan also experienced difficulties with communicating with those who were in a position to regulate the mining industry. Inspector Scanlan sent report after report to his superiors. Inspector Scanlan and his boss did not communicate effectively they should have communicated face to face due the severity of the mine situation.

Another concern of Inspector Scanlan had was the time it took the hierarchy to respond to his reports, Scanlan made several attempts to get the mines fixed where the miners could work in safe conditions instead of hazardous ones.

Inspector Scanlan wanted someone to take responsibility for the conditions...