'Explosion' as factory fire sends smoke over Melbourne's north
A factory blaze has sent smoke billowing over Melbourne's north, as firefighters stop the flames from spreading to a chemical storage facility next door.
Six employees of a mechanic's workshop in Campbellfield were safely evacuated on Thursday morning after the Metropolitan Fire Brigade were called to the Malcolm Place factory at 8.52am.
Nearby residents told 3AW radio of hearing an explosion, and smoke is moving in a southerly direction across Melbourne's north.
A statement issued by the MFB at 9.35am confirmed the fire had been brought under control.
"The fire is confined to the premises and firefighters are attacking the fire internally and have made good progress in knocking the fire down."
Fifty firefighters fought for 44 minutes to control the blaze, and prevent it from spreading to a neighbouring chemical storage facility.
Twenty fire appliances were on the scene, including three aerial units.
Ambulance Victoria is on standby at the scene, but has not treated any patients.
Police and WorkSafe officers were also at the scene.
The cause of the blaze is not yet known. The Environmental Protection Authority has sent officers to investigate and is assisting MFB.
People are being advised to avoid the area. Residents and businesses are urged to close windows and doors, turn off heating and cooling systems, and avoid the smell of smoke.
Malcolm Place is closed and traffic in the area will be affected.