Failure of a Compressed Hydrogen Cylinder in a Laboratory
Workers were connecting a compressed hydrogen cylinder, when a release of hydrogen occurred within a safety-box for flammable gases. During the emergency response procedures, the explosive atmosphere ignited and destroyed the safety-box completely. A fire followed the explosion, which was extinguished by the company fire department. Due to the explosion two employees were seriously injured and one minor injured.
Event Date
April 18, 2005
Record Quality Indicator
Region / Country
Event Initiating System
Classification of the Physical Effects
Nature of the Consequences
Facility Information
Application Type
Application
Specific Application Supply Chain Stage
Components Involved
H2 gas cylinder, safety box
Storage/Process Medium
Location Type
Location description
Industrial Area
Operational Condition
Pre-event Summary
The hydrogen release occurred during the connection of a compressed hydrogen cylinder.
Environmental Damage
0
Property Loss (onsite)
Y
Lessons Learned
Lessons Learned
Nothing is now on the accident analysis conclusions. Nevertheless, the company recommended all users of hydrogen-gas-cylinders to immediately ensure that the following conditions are in place:(1) All gas-cylinders are in a technically good condition;(2) The fixed pipe system with all its components and devices are sealed;(3) The operators are all well trained in handling hydrogen;(4) The operators have a documented training in the connection procedures of cylinders.
Event Nature
Emergency Action
The fire was put our by the BASF fire department
Release Type
Release Substance
Ignition Source
Detonation
No
Deflagration
No
High Pressure Explosion
No
High Voltage Explosion
No
Flame Type
Source Category
References
References
Company own annuncement