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Explosion: Fatal Fact #3
Construction Company Type: Removal/Installation/Junking of Gasoline Pumps and Underground Tanks
Accident Description:
A laborer was killed when a gasoline storage tank he was cutting with a portable power saw exploded. The worker's company was involved in installing, removing and junking gasoline pumps and underground tanks. Although he had experience working with the saw and scrap materials, the worker did not adequately purge the tank and test for vapors before beginning to cut. The 18 x 6 foot, 3000 gallon tank had been used recently for underground storage at a service station. At the time of the explosion, the mechanic was cutting on the tank with a gasoline powered portable saw equipped with an abrasive epoxy disk for cutting metal. The explosion propelled the worker 10 to 15 feet from the tank into another tank.
OSHA Recommendations:
- Train employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions when working with tanks that have previously contained flammable liquids (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).
- Follow recommended procedures set forth in American Petroleum Institute (API) Bulletin 1604, "Recommended Practice for Abandonment or Removal of Used Underground Service Station Tanks".
- Test atmosphere in tank prior to work or cutting.
- Establish guidelines for gas-freeing.
Accident Details: Explosion |
|
| Company Type: | Removal/Installation/Junking of Gasoline Pumps and Underground Tanks |
| Crew Size: | 2 |
| Union/Collective Bargaining? | No |
| Weather: | Clear |
| Worksite Inspection? | No |
| Designated Competent Person on Site? | No |
| Employer Safety and Health Program? | No |
| Training and Education for Employees? | No |
| Craft of Deceased Worker(s): | Laborer |
| Age / Sex of Deceased Worker(s): | 27; Male |
| Experience or Time on Job: | 2 years |
| Time on Project: | 1 hour |
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