Abstract: The employer, a foundry-type operation manufacturing bronze memorials and plaques, has a supply of triple-washed empty drums obtained from different sites to use as slag/waste containers. Employee #1 was attempting to remove the lid from an empty xylene drum with a welding torch. Apparently, the drum was to be used as a trash can for clean up. The employer also had can lid opening device to use for the in-house triple rinsed drums. When Employee #1 attempted to cut the lid off with the torch, the drum exploded. He was struck in the chest and head by the drum lid and died from head/chest trauma. Employee #1 had hazard communication training, hazard recognition training, and welding training. The xylene drum was properly labeled with all appropriate safety warnings.