Investigation Report
CAI / Arnel Chemical Plant Explosion — Final Investigation Report
CAI / Arnel Chemical Plant Explosion — Final Investigation Report
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- ExplosionHuman factorsLoss of containmentProcess safetyRegulation and legislation
- Fluid transfer
- Process pipework and pipelinesStorage tanksValve
- Ignition source controlOperating and work proceduresRisk assessmentVentilation
- Downstream and process industries
- Onshore facility
Summary
Investigation of the CAI/Arnel explosion in Danvers, Massachusetts, examines solvent boiling in an unsealed heated mix tank and vapour accumulation after ventilation shutdown. It analyses operating safeguards, procedures and regulatory oversight, using laboratory testing and blast reconstruction. The ignition source remained unidentified; recommendations address safer indoor heating and hazard review.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Human factors; human performance; ergonomics.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Process safety; major accident hazards.
Classifications: Regulation and legislation; safety legislation; regulatory requirements.
Classifications: Fluid transfer; fluid loading; fluid offloading.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Storage tanks; atmospheric tanks.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Ignition source control; ignition prevention.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Ventilation; forced ventilation.
Classifications: Downstream and process industries; refining; petrochemicals.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.