Inspection Detail

Inspection: 302759782 - Ibp, Inc.

Inspection Information - Office: Wichita Area Office

Investigation Summary

Employee #1, a rendering operator, was standing at the Delaval Number 2, Model APFX 213 Separator observing the product flow and adjusting the flow rate. The Delaval (separator) operates like a centrifuge to separate the tallow, water, and sludge. The day prior to the accident the Delaval Number 2 was not running product; the tallow was exiting the machine without being separated. On the day of the accident, Employee #1 and the other first shift rendering operator had replaced some parts in an attempt to get the machine separating properly. Employee #2 had been aware that the machine was not running product and the operators were attempting to correct the problem. Out of curiosity Employee #2, a rendering maintenance employee, entered the area to check on the status of the machine and had just been given the thumbs up by the other rendering operator. Employee #2 then proceeded to go up the catwalk, briefly spoke with Employee #1, checked for machine vibration by placing his hand on the machine (machine was running smoothly), and had just turned to leave when the machine exploded. Employee #1 was struck in the head and face by the top (bowl) and hood of the machine and was killed. Employee #2 was struck by flying debris on his chest, left upper extremity and right knee. Employee #2 was treated at the hospital for a laceration to his left index finger which required stitches and contusions to his left upper extremity, left chest, and right knee. Employee #2 was not hospitalized.

Keywords: MAINTENANCE, REPAIR, EXPLOSION