An explosion occurred at a pharmaceutical factory in east China's Jinan City on October 10, 2016. [Photo: qlwb.com.cn]

No casualties were reported after an explosion occurred at a pharmaceutical factory in east China's Jinan City Monday night, local police authorities said.

According to the official microblog of the city's public security bureau, smoke was spotted coming out from the east side of Qilu Pharmaceutical Company in Dongjia Township, Licheng District.

A preliminary investigation found a pressure vessel with ethanol in it exploded in a workshop of about 400 square meters and released a little non-toxic gas, but did not cause open flames. There were no flammable or combustible materials nearby.

According to people living nearby, the explosion was felt strongly, and white powder and a burning smell filled the air.

Firefighters have rushed to the scene.

Further investigation is under way.