The Oaks explosion took place in the Oaks Colliery, located in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. It occurred when a build-up of firedamp, a flammable gas commonly found in coal mines, ignited, leading to a catastrophic explosion that echoed through the mine's tunnels. At the time, the colliery employed a substantial workforce, and this explosion claimed the lives of 361 individuals, including both miners and the rescue teams that immediately sought to save their trapped colleagues. The scale of the disaster was unprecedented for Britain, drawing widespread attention to mining safety practices of the era.

Rescue efforts began almost immediately, but conditions within the mine were perilous, complicating the retrieval of bodies. Miners who had fled were often reluctant to return to the site out of fear. Advances in rescue technology were minimal, forcing workers and rescuers to rely on rudimentary methods. These efforts showcased the courage and commitment of those involved, including local volunteers and trained rescue workers who risked their lives to save others and recover victims.

The Oaks disaster served as a catalyst for significant changes in mining legislation. It pressured the government and industry stakeholders to address safety protocols and improve working conditions in coal mines. In the subsequent years, fatalities in the mining industry decreased as reforms were implemented, driven by public outcry and the realization that such tragedies could be mitigated through better regulations and technologies.