Investigation Report
Synthron Chemical Explosion — Synthron Case Study
Synthron Chemical Explosion — Synthron Case Study
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- ExplosionLeadership and safety cultureLoss of containmentProcess safetyRegulation and legislation
- Pressure vessel
- Competence and trainingEvacuation, escape and rescueManagement of changeRisk assessment
- Downstream and process industries
- Onshore facility
Summary
This case study examines a runaway acrylic polymerisation reaction and vapour cloud explosion at Synthron in North Carolina, killing one worker and injuring 14. It analyses recipe changes, inadequate reactor safeguards, condenser fouling, manway securing practices, training and corporate oversight, and identifies lessons for reactive hazard management and emergency evacuation.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Leadership and safety culture; safety culture; safety leadership.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Process safety; major accident hazards.
Classifications: Regulation and legislation; safety legislation; regulatory requirements.
Classifications: Pressure vessel; pressure vessels.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Evacuation, escape and rescue; EER; escape and rescue.
Classifications: Management of change; MOC; change management.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Downstream and process industries; refining; petrochemicals.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.