Investigation Report
Texas Tech University Chemistry Lab Explosion
Texas Tech University Chemistry Lab Explosion
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- ExplosionHazardous Substances
- ExplosionHazardous substancesLeadership and safety cultureLearning from incidentsRisk management
- Laboratory research
- Personal protective equipment
- Competence and trainingOperating and work proceduresOperational supervisionRisk assessment
- Education and academic research
- Laboratory
Summary
This case study examines an energetic-material laboratory explosion at Texas Tech University. It analyses synthesis scale-up, mortar-and-pestle handling, eye protection, research-specific training and supervisory oversight. Findings address physical-hazard assessment, written protocols, organisational accountability and missed opportunities to learn from earlier incidents, with recommendations for universities and research funders.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Hazardous substances; hazardous chemicals; chemical exposure.
Classifications: Leadership and safety culture; safety culture; safety leadership.
Classifications: Learning from incidents; incident learning; lessons learnt; lessons learned.
Classifications: Risk management; risk evaluation.
Classifications: Laboratory research.
Classifications: Personal protective equipment; PPE; personal protection equipment.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Operational supervision.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Education and academic research.
Classifications: Laboratory.
Themes: explosion, hazardous substances.