A worker has died in Taraz, Kazakhstan after sustaining severe burns in an industrial accident.

The incident occurred at the Novodzhambul Phosphorus Plant, where a release of molten phosphorus slag erupted from a furnace inside one of the workshops. Three employees were caught beneath the scorching mass, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

All three suffered serious burns to their bodies and respiratory tracts. The most critically injured was a 32-year-old worker, who sustained burns over 45 percent of his body. Doctors fought for his life for three days, but he succumbed to his injuries. The other two victims remain under medical supervision.

A special commission has been formed to determine the cause of the accident and assess possible safety violations. Emergency inspections are underway at the plant, and police have opened a criminal case.