The site needs to implement a good Operational and Readiness Inspection procedure. System inspection deficiencies need to be identified, and (if possible) reviewed by a second party before future tests are conducted. This inspection could include…

Although a functional fire protection system would have helped to extinguish the fire, a properly installed hydrogen detection system, coupled with a properly designed ventilation system, could have prevented the incident altogether.

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This incident emphasizes the need for proper gas detection and ventilation systems, as well as fire suppression systems, in laboratories using and storing hydrogen. This is especially true when open flame burners are in close proximity.…

• Carefully revise the risk assessment process to evaluate any confined areas where hydrogen is handled.
• Separate the fire and gas detection alarm system from the process information to provide easy and clear identification.…

1. Carbon steel Nelson curve methodology cannot be depended on to prevent HTHA equipment failures and cannot be reliably used to predict the occurrence of HTHA equipment damage. Revisions to recommended practices should be considered…