Investigation Report
ExxonMobil Torrance Refinery Explosion
ExxonMobil Torrance Refinery Explosion
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- ExplosionProcess Safety
- Barrier managementExplosionMechanical failureProcess safetyRisk management
- Confined space entryInspection and maintenance
- Gas detectorRotating machineryValve
- Ignition source controlEnergy and process isolationOperating and work proceduresRisk assessment
- Downstream and process industries
- Onshore facility
Summary
CSB investigates the Torrance refinery electrostatic precipitator explosion during FCC Safe Park operation and expander isolation. It examines failed catalyst and steam barriers, slide-valve erosion, hydrocarbon backflow, inadequate procedures and detection, and ignition within the energised precipitator. Recommendations address isolation, safeguard assurance, maintenance, operating modes and equipment siting.
Classifications: Barrier management; safety barrier management.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Process safety; major accident hazards.
Classifications: Risk management; risk evaluation.
Classifications: Confined space entry; tank entry; enclosed space entry.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Gas detector; gas monitor; gas detection instrument.
Classifications: Rotating machinery; rotating equipment.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Ignition source control; ignition prevention.
Classifications: Energy and process isolation; isolation; energy isolation.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Downstream and process industries; refining; petrochemicals.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.
Themes: explosion, process safety.