CSB’s new video message states concern for continued pressure-vessel explosions

The Chemical Safety Board’s (CSB) chairman, John Bresland, released a new video safety message asking jurisdictions across the U.S. to adopt the ASME Pressure Vessel Code to reduce the number of accidents involving catastrophic pressure vessel failures in process industries. The safety message can be viewed on www.CSB.gov. In the safety message, chairman Bresland warns that without appropriate safeguards, pressure vessels can pose lethal dangers. He says, “Pressure vessels store tremendous amounts of energy and you should never become complacent about the risks.”
 
Particular danger exists when vessels are improperly installed, welded, or modified, or when they lack effective pressure relief systems. Mr. Bresland refers to several incidents investigated by the CSB including an explosion at a Louisiana natural gas well that killed four workers when a tank rated only for atmospheric pressure was exposed to gas pressure up to 800 psi. In April 2003, an 8-ft tank used to heat sugar caramel exploded when the vent line became blocked, killing an overnight operator, releasing large amounts of ammonia, and forcing a community evacuation. The vessel had no pressure-relief system. Additionally, in 2004 a pressure vessel weighing 50,000 lb exploded at a chemical plant in Houston, throwing heavy fragments into the community, which damaged a church and businesses.  The CSB found that the company improperly modified and welded the vessel.
 
Chairman Bresland states that these accidents can be avoided if states implement long-established codes for safe use. He says, “There are only eleven states that do not require companies to follow the Pressure Vessel Code of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). I ask all jurisdictions to adopt the Pressure Vessel Code and related boiler standards. Lives will be saved as a result.”