Blast during dismantling of a chemical boiler - 3 persons die due to burns

Three persons died in a blast that occurred during the dismantling of a chemical boiler in a scrap godown. The contents of the boiler are not known. However, this incident is a lesson that any vessel before sold as a scrap should be cleaned thoroughly to ensure that it is free from chemicals. The incident might have happened during gas cutting of the vessel with trapped chemicals generating hot gases or undergoing runaway reaction and with improper venting. Provision for venting should be available to avoid pressure rise.




http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/thane/Three-killed-in-Thane-boiler-blast/articleshow/33677572.cms

Gas cutting - Two workers burnt and four injured during the fire

It is reported that two workers died and four more were injured during gas cutting of an abandoned chemical plant machinery in a resultant fire. The chemical factory not in use for two years was purchased and renovation work was taken up. While cutting the big machinery with gas cutters, the sparks fell on the plastic boxes nearby that contained residual chemicals and quick spread of fire caused the deaths and injuries. The fire was brought under control after four hours of struggle.

To avoid such incidents, ensure:

1. equipment free from chemicals/combustibles inside and outside
2. absence of all combustibles/ inflammable atleast within 15 m radius of proposed hot work to avoid flying sparks falling on these materials
3. sufficient pressure in oxygen and cutting gas cylinders
4. good condition of hoses, torches
5. flashback arrestors in both hose lines
6. use of friction lighter
7. clear means of access/egress
8. availability of minimum numbers of extinguishers
9. sufficient illumination and ventilation
10. training
11. supervision, etc