Severity
Incident
Was Hydrogen Released?
Yes
Was There Ignition?
Yes
Incident Date
Dec 31, 1969
Setting
Equipment
- Ventilation System
- Venting System
- Process Equipment
- Process Vessels
- Motive Power Systems
- Pump
Damage and Injuries
Probable Cause
Contributing Factors
When Incident Was Discovered
Lessons Learned
The mechanisms and rates by which hydrogen gas is generated and subsequently accumulated in the holding tank need to be fully understood by vendors and employees alike. Active venting, warning signs, and local alarms designed to activate when hydrogen ventilation lines are obstructed are essential.