Investigation Report
Givaudan Sense Colour Explosion
Givaudan Sense Colour Explosion
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- Explosion
- ExplosionMechanical failurePressure systemsProcess safetyRegulation and legislation
- Pressure vesselValve
- Alarm managementManagement of changePressure reliefRisk assessment
- Downstream and process industries
- Onshore facility
Summary
Investigation of a fatal reactor explosion during caramel colouring manufacture in Louisville. A vent valve failed closed, accelerating sugar decomposition; cooling and emergency pressure relief capacity were inadequate. Calorimetry and component testing inform findings on reactive hazards, process safety implementation, operating limits, occupied-building siting and regulatory coverage gaps.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Process safety; major accident hazards.
Classifications: Regulation and legislation; safety legislation; regulatory requirements.
Classifications: Pressure vessel; pressure vessels.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Alarm management.
Classifications: Management of change; MOC; change management.
Classifications: Pressure relief; overpressure protection.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Downstream and process industries; refining; petrochemicals.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.
Summary
Investigation into an explosion at a chemical manufacturing facility.
Themes: explosion.