Tag Archives: explosions

General Safety Issues

Anticipating, reducing and mitigating risks using portable EX Equipment

Written by Christopher Latter

When you work in extreme environments like underground mining operations, there are various risk factors which need to be addressed. You can take various measures to cope with these risks, including performing risk assessments and modifying environments as necessary to minimise risks. When the primary risk on a site is an explosive atmosphere due to the presence of certain gases and temperatures, there are very specific steps that should be taken. One of the key measures is to implement portable EX Equipment that can be taken to the site during use and removed once the job is done.

What is EX Equipment?

EX equipment is designed and manufactured with systems that protect against ignition and thereby minimise the risk of explosion. It has to be fully compliant with ATEX directives on explosive atmospheres and protective systems to be used in them. It means workers can get the lighting, heating, ventilation and power they need without the fear that the hardware could cause an explosion in a volatile atmosphere.

Working in these types of extreme environments is impossible without electrical equipment such as:

  • Tools
  • Lighting
  • Ventilation
  • Generators

But ordinary electrical equipment is prone to heat and surges that could ignite flammable gases and lead to disaster. When a site is being assessed, the assessor should identify the hazards and specify what equipment will be needed. In addition to flammable gases, this could also involve hazards like darkness and toxicity of the air. Recommendations can then be made for the equipment to be implemented that will make the environment workable.

Risk reduction and mitigation

If the working environment contains a gas that obscures vision or is toxic when inhaled, there needs to be ventilation to minimise the presence of that gas. But if there is also a flammable presence, an ordinary fan and shaft system could potentially cause an explosion. But with portable EX equipment, you get a solution that is tailored to deliver the safest possible environment where these types of risks are present. The portability of the solution makes it easy to install and modify to vent the gas, and the explosion resistance mitigates the risk of ignition. The result is the safest possible working environment where workers can be productive without worrying about the hazards of the space.

EX Equipment is an essential component of a comprehensive risk management plan for hazardous work environments. It provides the full range of necessary equipment to make an environment workable whilst reducing the risk of ignition and explosion to the bare minimum. It is built to the exacting specifications of the European ATEX directives, and no extreme work environment should be without it.

 

General Safety Issues

WORST WORKPLACE DISASTERS (GUEST POST)

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Apart from providing sufficient compensation and benefit packages to employees, a top priority for companies should also be ensuring workers’ safety. No one can tell for sure when an accident, a natural disaster, or any other unforeseen event could take place.

It’s important to be prepared for these things by being aware of how to avoid such situations, and how to act in the event that they do occur. Below are some examples of the world’s worst disasters that happened in the workplace, from which workers and employers alike could learn from:

1.      Coal dam explosion

In February 1972, 125 people were killed after one of Pittston Coal Company’s coal slurry impoundment dam explodes, which caused the leak of 175 million gallons of black wastewater. The incident caused 4,000 people to be homeless. It was reported that the dam had been inspected by a federal mine inspector just 4 days before the accident, and he proclaimed the dam to be “satisfactory.”  Inspections should be conducted in the workplace regularly—in some, much more than others—and they should be done thoroughly and with integrity.

2.     Oil refinery explosion

In July 1985, seventeen workers were killed in a fire after what turned out to be an explosion in an oil refinery. A worker at the Union Oil Company Refinery had seen vapors coming out from a tiny crack in a high-pressure gas-filled 100-foot tower. He tried to shut off the pressure valve but a spark had caused the ignition of the fumes. This caused an explosion that sent the 34-ton tank over 3.400 feet in the air and caused a big part of the refinery to be consumed by flames.

Check all equipment periodically, see that everything is in place. Replace those that need to be and also, make sure to educate workers on proper use and handling. They should also know the proper channels for reporting anything suspicious.

3.      Chemical plant blast

In October 1989, 23 workers were killed after a series of explosions occurred. This followed a routine maintenance, which was done on the Phillips chemical plant’s polyethylene reactor next to the Houston Ship Channel. A large quantity of flammable gases had ignited and 314 were injured. It was determined afterwards that there had been a lack of process hazard analysis, as well as a badly maintained fire protection system, among other violations committed by the plant.

4.     Trapped in fire locked doors

In September 1991, 25 workers died in an Imperial Foods chicken processing plant after an industrial fire trapped them inside fire locked doors. A faulty adjustment in the hydraulic line caused the fire. It was reported that the factory never went through a safety inspection in its 11 years of operation.

5.     Gas explosion

In March 2005, a gas explosion occurred at a British Petroleum oil refinery causing fifteen people to die and 170 people to be injured. The blast was reported to have been caused by broken safety devices and poor working conditions.

6.      Gulf of Mexico explosion

In April 2010, 11 workers were killed at an explosion at the Deepwater Horizon offshore drilling rig in the Gulf of Mexico. It was reported that the petroleum industry were aware about safety equipment issues in earlier incidents but it continued its operations anyway, resulting in people getting killed and 17 others being injured in what was the deemed as the largest oil spill in the petroleum industry’s history.

7.     Mine explosion

In April 2010, a mine explosion killed 29 workers at the Upper Big Branch mine in Raleigh County, W. Va. The accident was deemed as the worst mining disaster in the U.S. since 1970. Massey Energy, the mine owner was reported to have violated many safety measures at the mine mentioned.

8.     Carbon monoxide poisoning

In June 2010, two employees were found dead after buffing floors at a mental health outpatient facility at Top Notch Cleaners, LLC, Valley, Ala. using machines that produce propane gas. The two men were found dead the next morning after their night shift. The police who had showed up at the incident observed that they smelled gas upon entry of the building. The cause of the two men’s death had been reported as carbon monoxide poisoning, caused by insufficient ventilation.

9.      Welding fire accident

In March 2010, a worker was fatally burned, dying a week later, after four contractors installed insulation on a new crude storage tank, welding the tank, and igniting a fire. The incident occurred at Northwest Insulation, Artesia, N.M. One worker who stayed on the tank had been burned to death while two were injured, and a fourth worker dies after more than a week. The cause of the accident is still being investigated.

10.    Tank explosion

In July 2010, two workers were burned to death after the tank they were working on at Northeast Energy Management Inc., Cheswick, Pa. exploded, which caused the bodies of the two men to be thrown 60 feet away from the site. The incident had reportedly been the third for the company since an employee was severely burned in a similar explosion in 2007.

Learning about possible workplace disasters is not enough to prepare for future incidents. To secure the safety of workers in the workplace, companies should apply for health insurance for their employees to ensure that such accidents will not cripple the employees and the company financially.  Of course, comply with legal laws and industry standards because failing to do so will only end up costing you more money than when you fulfil your obligations.

 

Author’s Bio

Ryan Del Villar is a content writer for Money Hero, Hong Kong’s leading online comparison portal. Ryan is also a freelance writer at Helm Word, an Online Reputation Management company.

General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection

WHAT IS NOISE-INDUCED HEARING LOSS? (GUEST POST)

The occurrence of noise induced hearing loss is on the increase in the Western world, including Australia.  This increase is generally occurring from exposure to long periods of loud noises, and in some instances short loud noises such as an explosion.  While there are treatment options available, prevention is better than cure.  In order to prevent noise induced hearing loss, it must first be understood how it actually occurs.

How the human ear works

Every day we experience a large range of sounds via sound waves through our ears.  The Middle Ear amplifies the sound and hairs in the inner ear convert the sound waves into electrical signals so that our brains can understand what it is that we are hearing.  All pretty amazing when you think about it.

How does noise induced hearing loss occur?

While most noises we hear throughout the day are at safe levels, if we are exposed to an exceptionally loud sound (such as standing next to fireworks when they go off) or we are exposed to a loud sound for a prolonged period of time (for example working in a mechanical shop) then we can damage the hairs that convert sound in our inner ear.  This causes noise induced hearing loss.

Tips to avoid hearing damage in the workplace

First of all, it is necessary to understand what is meant by the term ‘too loud’. Any noise from 85 dB up can cause hearing loss. To put this figure into perspective, a lawn mower is between 85 and 90 dB. The louder the noise is,  the more quickly the hearing loss will occur. So follow these steps to protect your hearing.

  • Take note of how long you have been exposed to loud noise and try and have a break of 15 minutes or so to give your ears a rest.
  • Avoid noisy situations. If you have to  raise your voice to be heard then it is likely you are in a situation that is hazardous for your hearing.
  • If you can’t avoid a noisy situation, protect your hearing with either foam ear plugs or head phones.
  • If you regularly attend concerts, it may be worth investing in some custom fit musician ear plugs. Always avoid standing directly in front of speakers or amplifiers.
  • Have your hearing tested every two years particularly if you have noticed a change in your hearing. Your clinician will be able to give you further advice about protecting your hearing. 

When does noise induced hearing loss occur?

There are several ways that noise induced hearing loss can occur:

  • Prolonged exposure to noise:  If you are exposed to noise about 85 decibels for a prolonged period of time, then you can start damaging your hearing.
  • Short bursts of sounds:  Sounds above 120 decibels in short bursts can also cause hearing damage.

What are the symptoms?

Immediately after exposure to loud noise you may hear a ringing in your ears and have trouble hearing other people talk.  The length of time this lasts depends on how loud the noise you were exposed to was, and the length of period exposed.  Temporary hearing loss can also occur and for between 16 and 48 hours after an exposure to loud noise (eg., a rock concert).   Temporary hearing loss generally doesn’t have any long term effects.

The longer term symptoms of noise induced hearing loss can be difficult to diagnose at first.  The person may not notice slight changes in their hearing until it reaches a level that is unacceptable to them.  It is for this reason that regular hearing checks are needed. 

What are the treatment options?

As a first step you should make an appointment with a hearing centre.  After your assessment your audiologist will be able to discuss possible treatment options such as avoiding prolonged exposure to loud or the use of hearing aids.  Hearing aids can be very effective for noise induced hearing loss.

Noise induced hearing loss is a condition that is increasing in society.  As cities develop there are more and more opportunities for loud noises, and more chances of being exposed to loud noises for a prolonged period of time.  Both of these can cause noise induced hearing loss.

If you are experiencing noise induced hearing loss – or think you are – then it is imperative that you make an appointment to visit an audiologist to test your hearing today.  The sooner you address the problem the more opportunities you will have to limit the damage and improve your hearing.

BIO – Tanya Wilson

Tanya has over 7 years’ experience working in the hearing healthcare sector and writes hearing health care articles for Connect HearingAustralia.

Tanya’s hearing expertise enables her to focus on a range of hearing topics, including tackling common hearing issues, treatment options and new hearing technology.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

SAFE GRINDING OPERATIONS (GUEST POST)

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Risk of Fire and Explosion

Grinding and allied processes produce molten metal, sparks, slag and hot work surfaces which pose a risk of fire and explosion, and which can result in fatalities, serious injury and plant damage. Flying sparks are the main cause of fire and explosion, especially as sparks can travel up to 10 metres from the work space. Sparks and molten metal can travel even greater distances when falling and can pass through and become lodged in cracks, clothing, pipe holes and other small openings. To reduce the risk of fire and explosion, a permit to work should be obtained before commencing grinding operations. Working areas and the areas below them should be kept free of combustible material. Fixed items of plant, such as installed electrical cables should be protected by a fire blanket. And sparks should be contained by means of a non-flammable material. Fire extinguishers should be close at hand, and the working area should be inspected when work is suspended to ensure there is no residual risk of fire or explosion.

Cutting Operations

Where cutting operations are performed, it is always important to give consideration to the effect that these operations will have on the stability of the work piece. In particular, consideration should be given to weight distribution, as the removal of significant weights may alter the balance of the work piece. Where appropriate, the work piece should be supported. You should also plan how items that have been removed will be lowered without risk to yourself, to others who may be working nearby, or to equipment.

Disk Burst

Serious injury can result when grinding wheels or disks burst, so it is important to take the steps necessary to reduce the risks associated with this hazard. Abrasive wheels should only be fitted by individuals who are trained and competent to do so. A pre-use check of portable grinding machines should be carried out to ensure that they are only fitted with reinforced discs, that the disc is suitable for the type of material to be ground, as well as for the speed of the machine and that guards are fitted and properly maintained. To avoid damaging discs, disc centres detaching and increased vibration levels, discs should always be applied at 90 degrees to the work piece to avoid the lateral stresses that leads to discs bursting. Uniform pressure should be applied during cutting and strategic cutting positions and / or restraints should be used where parent metal movement, which may result in snagging, is possible. All grinders have the potential to jolt when disc snagging occurs, which can result in serious injury. Where a Grinding Safety assessment indicates that snagging is a possibility, you should adopt a position that considers the direction the machine will move should snagging occur.

Training

All personnel need appropriate training and experience to be able to use work equipment safely. Never use grinding equipment unless you have received suitable training and are competent to do so, or you are receiving supervised training to reach this level of competence. Remember that contact with the grinding wheel can result in serious injury and that you should also wear protective clothing including Kevlar gloves and a visor to reduce the risk of injury.

Entanglement

When conducting grinding operations, it is also important that you wear close fitting garments. Make sure your overall sleeves are buttoned, that you do not wear a tie or jewellery and that you tie back long hair and long beards to reduce the risk of entanglement.

Personal Protective Equipment

PPE is an important means of reducing the risks associated with projectile particles during grinding operations. At least standard PPE with gauntlets, leathers, a cotton drill or fire retardant overalls and a full face visor with neck muff worn over goggles should be worn. Prolonged exposure to the dust produced during grinding operations can potentially result in scarring of the lung tissue and subsequent breathing difficulties. During prolonged or heavy operations, disposable respirators should be worn. For permanent grinders, an air fed all in one hood should be worn. Only PPE in good working condition will reduce the hazards associated with your work, so it is important to remove, clean and store your PPE correctly. All PPE should therefore be cleaned down with a soft brush before removing.

Noise at Work

Hearing loss caused by exposure to noise at work is a significant source of occupational disease, with many people suffering deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise levels at work. The level of noise and how long people are exposed to noise at work both contribute to potential hearing damage. Noise can be reduced to harmless levels by using ear plugs and ear defenders while conducting grinding operations and the use of hearing protection should be mandatory within high noise areas.

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome HAVS

If you regularly use hand held grinders, you may be at risk of developing Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome or HAVS. This condition involves damage to the blood vessels, nerves and joints of the hand, wrist and arm. It is a painful and debilitating condition, resulting in numbness of the hands to the extent where it is impossible to feel with your fingers and very difficult for you to pick up small objects. This can make both occupational and leisure activities, such as playing darts, fishing or DIY, impossible. HAVS is entirely preventable. Always use the right tool for the job, as this will allow you to complete the job more quickly and will expose you to less hand-arm vibration. Carry out a pre-use inspection of all grinding equipment and report any damage to your supervisor, as faults and general wear may result in increased vibration. Try to reduce the amount of vibration you are exposed to in one go by doing other jobs in between grinding operations. Use a relaxed grip and avoid using excessive force on a tool or work piece. Store tools so that they do not have very cold handles when used next. Keep your hands warm and dry and take breaks to exercise your fingers regularly.

Sent to us by Kevin at Riskatmedia – Safety Video

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Respiratory Safety

INFORMATION ABOUT COMBUSTIBLE DUST EXPLOSIONS

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Most industrial settings have hazards of all types.  One kind of hazard that is particularly acute during winter months is combustible dust.   We feel  it is important that we share some information on this dangerous situation that may be present in many businesses. 

The National Fire Protection Association indicates that 1/32” of  an accumulation of this kind of dust can rise to an explosion.  This is an amount equal to the thickness of a dime.  Any combustible material (and some materials normally considered noncombustible) can burn rapidly when in a finely divided form. Powdered products that are stored and transported in bulk bags can form combustible dust when the bags are filled or discharged. If such a dust cloud is hovering in air in the right strength, it can become explosive. Any source of ignition; a flame, heating elements, frictional spark, or electrostatic discharge can cause a detonation. Such an explosion can cause employee deaths, injuries, and destruction of entire buildings. These events have killed many employees and injured hundreds over the past decades.  Materials that may form combustible dust include metals (such as aluminum, iron, zinc, and magnesium), wood, coal, plastics,  paper, soap, and certain textiles. In many accidents, employers and employees were unaware that a hazard even existed.  Other industries at risk of combustible dust explosions are:  food, (e.g., candy, sugar, spice, starch, flour, feed), grain, tobacco, pulp, rubber, furniture, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and fossil fuel power generation. 

Dust Explosions are preventable.  The National Fire Protection Association has comprehensive information that can help manufacturers avoid these catastrophes.  They can assist company safety personnel, management, and others who are responsible for recognizing dust fire and explosion hazards byadvising  them in establishing control measures. Good housekeeping is of the utmost importance. Many manufacturers use industrial dust and fume collection systems in their facilities. 

One of the most important engineering controls available for improving or maintaining the quality of air in the work environment is ventilation. Ventilation is a way of controlling the environment with airflow. Facilities failing to furnish adequate maintenance of ventilation equipment, those workplaces operated to maximize energy conservation, windowless areas, and areas with high occupancies or confined spaces may have poor ventilation.

Personal protective equipment for employees in these industries includes respirators, hardhats, gloves, and eye protection, such as safety goggles.  Protecting the employees by furnishing the right PPE, and controlling risk factors in the facility should be the main goal of any business.  Those in charge should be aware of any previous fires their company has experienced.

Some of the above information was obtained from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board, an independent federal agency that investigates chemical accidents.  These board members are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.  They are comprised of chemical and mechanical engineers, safety experts, and others with vast experience in public and private sectors.  Following their investigations, they make recommendations to OSHA, EPA, individual organizations and labor groups. 

In 2003, the CSB launched investigations of three major industrial explosions involving combustible powders. These explosions – in North Carolina, Kentucky, and Indiana – cost 14 lives and caused numerous injuries and substantial property losses. The Board responded by launching a nationwide study to determine the scope of the problem and recommend new safety measures for facilities that handle combustible powders. The CSB issued its final report at a public meeting in Washington, DC, on November 9, 2006, calling for a new OSHA regulatory standard designed to prevent combustible dust fires and explosions.