Inspection Detail

Inspection: 310197389 - W.M. Lyles Co.

Inspection Information - Office: Van Nuys District Office

Investigation Summary

At approximately 1:47 on May 16, 2007, Employees #1, and #2, gas line workers, were constructing a 1-inch by-pass line and connecting it to the 3-inch line in a hole that varied in depth from 3 to 5 feet deep. The areas that had a depth of 5 feet had aluminum shoring in place, and a ladder for escape. Employee #3, a backhoe operator, had uncovered the crossing plates from the hole so that Employees #1 and #2 could enter the hole to begin the by-pass. A worker from another company was present to provide instruction to Employees #1 and #2, and to ensure that the gas company's connection protocols were being properly followed. While in the hole making the connection, the gas line exploded. Employee #1 received first and second degree burns to his right hand, right arm and face; Employee #2 received first, second and some third degree burns to his back, arms, face, and legs; Employee #3, who was on the top edge of the hole, received first and second degree burns to his face, right arm and right hand. The worker from another company, who was on the top edge of the hole, received first degree burns to his hand, but was not hospitalized. Employees #1, #2, and #3 were hospitalized for their injuries.

Keywords: BURN, FIRE, GAS, EXPLOSION, SMOKE, ARM, FACE, BACKHOE, HAND