Mill worker Derek Moore died instantly from the explosion at Wood Treatment Ltd, an inquest heard.
Derek, 62, from Stoke, was one of four people killed in the blast in Bosley on July 17.
Coroner for Cheshire Nicholas Rheinberg said Mr Moore suffered a ‘traumatic brain stem injury and fractured cervical spine’ resulting in his “immediate death”.
His burned body was discovered at the site days after the explosion and was identified by dental records and fingerprints, it was heard.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Richard Ost spoke at the hearing describing the scene of devastation emergency crews faced when they arrived and they are still tackling fires at the site.
Det Ch Supt Philip Jones, from Cheshire Police, described rescue workers “tunnelling into collapsed buildings” as they searched for missing workers.
He warned the investigation to establish whether there is any culpability under criminal law will be ‘lengthy’.
The inquest into his death was opened and adjourned at Macclesfield Town Hall on Tuesday, meaning his family can now hold a funeral.
