Premier Mao Chi-kuo has announced a ban on the use of colored powders at public events until they can be proven safe.
The announcement on Sunday followed an explosion at a local water park, which injured more than 500 partygoers on Saturday night. The explosion involved colored powder made from corn starch, which was used for a visual effect and was to be sprayed on the participants.
Premier Mao announced the powder ban on Sunday morning. He was visiting victims at National Taiwan University Hospital, one of dozens of local hospitals where victims were sent following the incident.
Mao said that the Cabinet would set up a special committee to deal with medical treatment for the injured. He said that due to the high number of burn victims, there was an immediate need for artificial skin and skin grafts. He said the victims would also need rehabilitation and counseling. Mao said that there are adequate medical resources to deal with the injuries, and that the Cabinet would call on medical suppliers to provide additional help if needed.
Meanwhile, Premier Mao said that fire authorities will also meet with environmental protection authorities, occupational safety officials from the labor ministry, and flammability experts to create new regulations regarding the use of powders.