Investigation Report
Herrig Brothers Farm Propane Tank Explosion — Final Investigation Report
Herrig Brothers Farm Propane Tank Explosion — Final Investigation Report
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- ExplosionFireHydrocarbon releaseMechanical failurePressure systems
- Pressure vesselProcess pipework and pipelinesValve
- Competence and trainingEmergency responseExclusion zonesFunctional testing
- Onshore facility
Summary
Investigates a propane tank BLEVE at an Iowa turkey farm that killed two volunteer firefighters and injured seven other responders. The report examines vehicle damage to unprotected piping, restricted flow preventing excess flow valve closure, fire-related tank failure and shortcomings in BLEVE response training, supported by metallurgical examination and flow reconstruction tests.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Fire; fire safety.
Classifications: Hydrocarbon release; hydrocarbon leak; oil and gas release.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Pressure vessel; pressure vessels.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Emergency response; emergency preparedness.
Classifications: Exclusion zones; red zones; restricted access zones.
Classifications: Functional testing; function test.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.