Investigation Report
Morton International Inc. Runaway Chemical Reaction — Final Investigation Report
Morton International Inc. Runaway Chemical Reaction — Final Investigation Report
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- ExplosionFireProcess safetyRegulation and legislation
- Operator displays and control interfacesPressure vesselValve
- Management of changeOperating and work proceduresPressure reliefRisk assessment
- Downstream and process industries
- Onshore facility
Summary
Investigates a runaway dye-production reaction at Morton’s Paterson plant, followed by explosion, fire and chemical release. The analysis examines inadequate cooling and pressure relief, process scale-up, hazard assessment, operating instructions and training. Calorimetric testing distinguished synthesis and decomposition reactions; recommendations address reactive-process information and safeguard evaluation.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Fire; fire safety.
Classifications: Process safety; major accident hazards.
Classifications: Regulation and legislation; safety legislation; regulatory requirements.
Classifications: Operator displays and control interfaces.
Classifications: Pressure vessel; pressure vessels.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Management of change; MOC; change management.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Pressure relief; overpressure protection.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Downstream and process industries; refining; petrochemicals.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.