Prof. Worsak Examines the Hidden Fire Dynamics of the Lat Phrao Tragedy in a Bangkok Post Op-Ed

In a new Bangkok Post op-ed, Prof. Emeritus Dr. Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai, Founding Executive Director of the AIT School of Professional Intelligence (AITSPIN), examines the possible sequence of events behind the deadly fire at Rong Beer Na Ladprao and the lessons it holds for fire prevention and building inspections.

In “Lessons from the Lat Phrao Fire,” Professor Worsak presents a working engineering hypothesis based on preliminary inspection findings, witness accounts, photographs, and video evidence. He suggests that the most dangerous phase of the fire may have developed inside the concealed space above the suspended ceiling near the stage.

Professor Worsak had previously examined similar safety failures in his 2022 Bangkok Post op-ed, “Lessons from the Mountain B Fire,” following the deadly nightclub fire in Chon Buri.

The article explains how a fire in a poorly ventilated ceiling cavity could consume the available oxygen while continuing to produce heat, smoke, toxic gases, and flammable vapours. A sudden influx of fresh air may then have triggered rapid combustion, possibly in the form of a backdraft, smoke explosion, or another type of fire-gas ignition.

Professor Worsak also highlights the dangers of carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, dense smoke, and reduced visibility, all of which can incapacitate people before flames reach them.

Beyond the technical analysis, the op-ed calls for stronger fire-safety inspections in Thailand. Professor Worsak argues that inspections must extend beyond visible extinguishers, exit signs, and doors to include concealed electrical systems, insulation, ceiling cavities, service shafts, and fire-stopping measures around cables and ducts.

Prof Worsak concludes the op-ed with the stark warning:

“The deadliest part of this fire may have developed out of sight,” he writes. “Our system of prevention must learn to look where the public cannot.”

Read the full op-ed in the Bangkok Post: https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/3287665/lessons-from-the-lat-phrao-fire