Installation

1. Fittings need to be visually inspected to insure ferules are in place and correctly positioned prior to swageing.
2. Research staff are responsible for communicating system specifications [gas type,…

The lessons of this event fall into five categories: (1) proper in-plant communications during events, (2) proper valve application for use with hydrogen, (3) excess flow check valve set point, (4) heating and ventilation and air conditioning (…

The following corrective actions have been taken:

• The non-return valve was dismantled, cleaned, and tested. Following positive testing, the system was restarted and pressurized without any further malfunctioning.
• The hydrogen…

Because the bottle was located outside at the time of the event, and the hydrogen did not find a source of ignition while venting through the relief valve, nothing serious happened. The failed regulator was replaced and operations continued.…

Personnel should be properly supervised, and supervisors should be aware of the activities of their personnel. Personnel must be motivated to adhere to established policies and procedures. All personnel associated with potentially hazardous work…

1. The plant tried to increase production and decrease workload, but failed to notice the potential negative outcomes of this change.
2. It is necessary to thoroughly simulate all potential negative outcomes of a change in procedures…

To prevent a similar flashback, the following measures have been taken:

1. The valve is opened slowly to avoid a major leading shock into the venting line.
2. A special nozzle (Laval or similar) is mounted directly after the…

Recommendations:

1. The using organization should define necessary activities in order to place hydrogen systems in long-term periods of inactivity. The defined activities should address requirements for rendering inert, isolation (i.…

• Active GH2 sensors should be installed and continuously monitored in all enclosed buildings near GH2 sources. All buildings near areas where hydrogen is used should be designed to preclude GH2 entrapment (e.g., sloping roof with…

The following actions were proposed as a result of this incident:

•  The company in charge of valve calibration and maintenance will be subject to approval of the plant service inspection team.
•  Plant operating…