Incident Investigation: Shipping Container Explodes, Injuring Worker | WorkSafeBC

Summary

The video recounts a serious incident at a construction site where a propane tank used with a barbecue caused a powerful explosion due to improper storage. After workers finished their break, they left the burner valves on, leading to a propane leak that went unnoticed overnight. The next morning, a spark from a cooler ignited the gas, resulting in significant property damage but fortunately only minor injuries to a worker. The video emphasizes the importance of proper propane storage and adequate ventilation in preventing such dangerous situations.

Takeaways

• 💥 A full tank of propane can generate explosive force equivalent to over a hundred kilograms of TNT.
• 🚧 Propane tanks should never be left on when stored indoors or in sealed containers.
• 🔒 The combination of an open propane valve and a sealed environment can lead to dangerous gas accumulation.
• 🌬️ Propane gas is heavier than air, causing it to fill enclosed spaces from the bottom up.
• 🕒 Inadequate ventilation in shipping containers increases the risk of fire and explosion.
• 🔌 Sparks from electrical devices, like coolers, can ignite accumulated propane gas.
• 🏥 The explosion caused minor injuries to the worker, highlighting the potential severity of such incidents.
• 🏚️ The blast resulted in extensive property damage, affecting nearby buildings and vehicles.
• 📦 To prevent similar incidents, store refillable propane tanks outdoors in well-ventilated areas.
• 📜 Always check local bylaws and fire codes for regulations on storing flammable substances.

Q & A

What explosive force can a full tank of propane generate compared to TNT?

A full tank of propane can generate the same explosive force as over a hundred kilograms of TNT.

What led to the propane gas leak in the shipping container?

The propane gas leak occurred because the valve on the barbecue's propane tank was left on, and one of the burner valves was likely opened inadvertently while the barbecue was being carried.

How did the propane fill the shipping container?

Propane, being heavier than air, filled the container from the bottom up.

Why was the propane unable to vent from the container?

The container's vents were too high and too small to effectively vent the propane.

What caused the explosion in the container?

The explosion was caused by a spark generated from the soft drink cooler's thermostat relay when it cycled, igniting the accumulated propane.

What were the consequences of the explosion?

The explosion resulted in extensive property damage, shattering windows of nearby buildings and vehicles, and one of the equipment container's doors was thrown across the street.

What safety measures should be taken when storing propane tanks?

Refillable propane tanks should be stored outdoors in a well-ventilated area, and if stored indoors, the tank must be disconnected and stored outdoors.

What design considerations do shipping containers have regarding ventilation?

Shipping containers are designed to be sealed for weather resistance, with only small vents, which can trap flammable vapors and gases, increasing the risk of fire and explosion.

What is emphasized as a key factor in reducing fire and explosion risks?

Adequate ventilation is emphasized as a key factor in reducing the risk of fire and explosion in storage containers.

What local regulations should be considered when using shipping containers for flammable substances?

It is important to check local bylaws and the BC Fire Code for additional requirements regarding the use of shipping containers for storing flammable substances.