Seismic Seconds - The Bhopal Gas Disaster Part 2 of 3

Summary

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Q & A

What chemical is central to the disaster described in the script?

The chemical central to the disaster is methyl isocyanate (MIC), a highly reactive and toxic substance.

Why was it dangerous for MIC to come into contact with water?

MIC is highly reactive, and when it comes into contact with water, it generates carbon dioxide and heat, leading to a potentially catastrophic chemical reaction. This reaction can create lethal gases, putting anyone nearby in danger.

What were the key failures that led to the disaster?

Key failures included ignoring safety protocols, such as not installing a slip blind to isolate the pipeline during cleaning, faulty gauges that were not properly maintained, and the shutdown of the cooling system that was crucial for preventing runaway reactions.

How does MIC affect the human body upon exposure?

MIC is very soluble in water and can irritate wet parts of the body, such as the eyes, mouth, throat, and upper airways. At high concentrations, it can reach the lungs, where it damages the tissue and causes a fluid buildup, leading to internal drowning.

What was the purpose of the refrigeration system, and why was turning it off a critical mistake?

The refrigeration system was designed to keep the MIC tanks cool, preventing dangerous temperature increases. Turning it off increased the likelihood of a runaway reaction, making the disaster more likely.

What could have prevented water from entering the MIC tank?

Installing a slip blind in the pipeline, which is a metal piece that blocks the flow of liquid, could have prevented water from entering the MIC tank. However, this safety procedure was often ignored.

What role did faulty instrumentation play in the disaster?

Faulty instrumentation, including a pressure gauge that had not been functioning properly for six weeks, led the operators to believe the system was safe when, in fact, water had already started contaminating the MIC storage tank.

What was the outcome of the disaster for the local population?

Thousands of people in the nearby shantytown were exposed to lethal MIC gas, leading to mass fatalities from poisoning and the same kind of internal damage as soldiers experienced from chemical warfare in World War I.

How does the exothermic reaction of MIC with water contribute to the disaster?

The exothermic reaction between MIC and water generates heat, which accelerates the reaction further. This feedback loop—known as a runaway reaction—causes the temperature and pressure inside the tank to rise uncontrollably, eventually leading to the release of toxic gas.

What safety mechanisms were bypassed or neglected that could have averted the disaster?

Multiple safety mechanisms were bypassed, including not installing a slip blind, ignoring faulty pressure gauges, and shutting down the refrigeration system. Additionally, the vent gas scrubber, which could have mitigated the toxic gas release, was either non-functional or inadequate.