A spectacular fire that kept firefighters away with multiple explosions has caused hundreds of thousands of dollars damage to a long-established Hamilton engineering and boat business.

The fire destroyed the front office and workshop at Radley’s of Hamilton on the Glenelg Highway on the northern outskirts of Hamilton. It is believed sparks from grinding ignited flammable material shortly after 3pm on Thursday.

Incident controller Andy Barrow from CFA District Five said the height and intensity of the flames also brought down nearby power lines.

Mr Barrow said he was on the scene within four minutes of the call to the CFA and the premises were fully engulfed in flames by then.

Workers in the business were able to move some items to safety before safely fleeing the blaze.

The CFA called in the aerial pumper from Warrnambool to pour water into the heart of the blaze and avoid sending firefighters through the burning building.

Mr Barrow said a quick response by the CFA prevented the fire from spreading to boats in the business' yard and to its adjacent sheds.

About 25 firefighters from seven units brought the fire under control about 5pm but firefighters will be on the scene for several hours to black out the smouldering building.

EARLIER: HAMILTON CFA are responding to a building fire at the intersection of the Glenelg Highway and the Henty Highway.

Eight CFA vehicles are responding to the blaze.

According to the Victorian Emergency website there is no threat to community but have advised people nearby to monitor conditions.

“Smoke is being blown across the road and motorists are advised to slow down and obey any traffic management instructions on site,” the website states.

People have been urged to keep roads clear so emergency services can respond.

More to come.