Inspection Detail

Inspection: 102921970 - Monsanto Chemical Company

Inspection Information - Office: Boston South Area Office

Investigation Summary

At 6:50 a.m. on September 9, 1988, a chemical reactor containing phosphorous trichloride, acetic anhydride, and glucial acetic acid began leaking around a faulty gasket. The airborne material spontaneously ignited, apparently due to the production of lower oxides of phosphorous (LOOP), such as phosphine and diphosphane, and the normal acetyl chloride. Employees in a nearby control room regulated the process, which was completely automated. An attempt was made to extinguish the fire with a hand-held extinguisher, but it continued to burn. The operator activated an emergency deluge system. The local fire department responded, but the fire had been controlled by the company's hazmat team. There were no injuries or damage outside the company's property.

Keywords: LEAK, GASKET, EMERGENCY RESPONSE, FIRE EXTINGUISHER, FIRE, PHOSPHOROUS, CHEMICAL REACTION, PHOSPHINE GAS, SPILL