A man suffered serious burns after being sprayed with molten metal at a factory.

The air ambulance was called, alongside police and three ambulance crews were called to Britannia Refined Metals, in Botany Road, Northfleet, at 1.15am yesterday.

The victim was taken to Tunbridge Wells Hospital at Pembury with severe leg injuries and then transferred to the specialist burns unit at East Grinstead Hospital where he was said to be in a stable condition.

The Health and Safety Executive has confirmed it is now investigating.

General manager of the factory Florian von Steinkeller said: “An employee received burns following an ejection of hot metal.

“First aid was provided and emergency services were called. The employee was taken to Tunbridge Wells Hospital and then transferred to East Grinstead Hospital. He is receiving treatment and is in a stable condition.

“The company has been in contact with the employee’s family to provide any help and support that may be required.

“The production area concerned was shut down so that a safety assessment could be made but has since been restarted.

“A full investigation of the incident will be carried out and further information will be provided when it is available.”