A new video safety message by the CSB calls for regulatory action on reactive chemicals following the April 17, 2013 ammonium nitrate explosion that killed at least 14 people in West, Texas.
The safety message again urges OSHA and the EPA to expand regulations and standards on reactive chemicals and hazards, and includes testimony from CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso during a June 27, 2013 hearing on the incident held before the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.
The CSB has determined that ammonium nitrate storage falls under a patchwork of U.S. standards and guidance, which does not prohibit many of the conditions found at the West facility, including the use of combustible wooden storage bins and buildings and a lack of sprinkler systems in case of fire.
“This situation must be addressed,” Chairperson Moure-Eraso insists, stating, “The fertilizer industry tells us that U.S. sites commonly store ammonium nitrate in wooden buildings and bins – even near homes, schools or other vulnerable facilities.”
The video goes on to describe other serious reactive chemical incidents investigated by the CSB since 2002, when the board originally made recommendations to OSHA and the EPA to update their standards.
The message concludes, “The CSB believes it’s past time for OSHA and EPA to regulate reactive hazards – including ammonium nitrate – under their process safety rules.”
For more information, visit www.csb.gov.