Inspection Detail

Inspection: 111820312 - Boden Chemical

Inspection Information - Office: Oakland District Office

Investigation Summary

On February 7, 1992, Employee #1 went to check the tubular gauge for the level of ammonium hydroxide yet to be pumped into the reactor. He could not determine the level in the gauge, so he checked the level in the plastic accordion expansion pipe between the ammonia tank and the reactor (RF-4). The pipe burst and 29 percent ammonium hydroxide and other reactants at 92 degrees C sprayed into Employee #1's face/eyes. His eyes are still healing. The pipe had previously been inspected and tightened by a pipe contractor one month earlier. No safety violations were observed, therefore, no citations were cited.

Keywords: EYE, MAINTENANCE, AMMONIA, EQUIPMENT FAILURE, RUPTURE, CHEMICAL BURN, PIPE, FACE, ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE, CHEMICAL