The operators of a popular Korean barbecue restaurant in Darwin could face fines of up to $18 million after being charged over an explosion that injured five diners earlier this year.
"NT WorkSafe will allege that the close proximity of the hot coals to the butane gas canister caused the canister to overpressure, activating the [vent] and releasing the butane gas under the table," it said in a statement.
The safety watchdog also said the barbecue grill unit allegedly lacked evidence that it had been certified for use in Australia, as required by law. NT WorkSafe said the family partnership, CJ Lee and DJ Lee, faces six reckless conduct charges for allegedly "failing to comply with their primary duty of care to ensure the safety of their patrons".The case is expected to go before the Darwin Local Court on January 31 next year.