Power failure - exposure to toxic gases - deaths and injuries

As per reports on the internet, 5 persons died and 8 persons got injured on exposure to toxic gases. It is stated that a short circuit led to power failure, stoppage of exhaust systems. After the restoration of power, persons got exposed while entering the plant for work.

The preliminary reasons given indicate the importance of exhaust systems in chemical plants or in areas where toxic gases can accumulate (like in confined spaces, mines, etc).

The way it looks, risk assessment, and safety measures for protection appear to be inadequate. Power failure for about 90-120 minutes caused the work area to be filled with toxic gases. This indicates that workers were working in such hazardous environments with dependence on the functioning of exhaust systems. This plant area seems to be the most dangerous area with continuous generation and exhaust of toxic gases to maintain a breathable atmosphere. If this is the case, entry to such areas should be with breathing sets and for a short duration. These areas are not fit for long-duration works. There should have been online gas detectors with audio-visual alarms with emergency power backup.

https://www.shine.cn/news/nation/2102285210/

https://www.caixinglobal.com/2021-03-01/blackout-caused-gas-leak-results-in-five-deaths-at-northeast-china-factory-101668798.html

Persons die during tank sludge cleaning

As per reports, totally, nine persons died and another is injured in a work involving cleaning of sludge from an oil tank. Initially, four persons who entered for the work did not respond for few hours and three more entered to know about them.
Due to inhalation of toxic gases, persons died, as per reports.

Normally, when such works are to be carried out in confined spaces like oil tankers, closed vessels, equipment, etc, oxygen levels are to be measured and action to be taken to exhaust poisonous gases and admit air to keep oxygen levels as in the open atmosphere. Continuous exhaust is to be maintained. Where, it is not possible, they have to enter with compressed air cylinders on their back, connected to the face piece respirator. Further, there should be buddy system, i.e. for every one worker inside, there should be an equally capable person outside with safety belt extended rope in the hands of person outside; and to engage in constant communication, so that in case of any emergency, immediate rescue operations can be made.

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/maharashtra-seven-workers-die-inhaling-poisonous-gas-in-latur-district-4499670/

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/aurangabad/7-workers-die-of-suffocation-in-latur-oil-mills-chemical-tank/articleshow/56881624.cms