3 Case-studies Of Gas Explosions In Asia
Fires are the accidents that occur most frequently, their causes are very diverse and require intervention methods and fire risk assessment techniques that are unique to each situation.
Here are 3 case studies of three gas explosions that occurred in Asia:
Singapore, Leeden National Oxygen
On October 2016, a faulty laboratory equipment caused an explosion at a jurong industrial gas supply firm, injuring seven and one death. Reports had stated that the blast created a huge impact, blowing two workers off their chairs, and caused part of the laboratory ceiling to collapse.
Leeden National Oxygen is a company speciailising in storing, mixing and bottling industrial gases such as hydrogen, helium, nitrogen and argon. The deceased was analyzing the components and concentration of gases from a cylinder containing methane, oxygen and nitrogen when a regulator valve leaked. A joint in the valve had been welded together unevenly, a blunder made during the construction. Heat was generated during the fracture of the metal valve and the gas escaped created a spark.
The oxygen-rich environment allowed methane to be ignited easily, and causing an explosion eventually due to rapid overpressure.
News source: The Straits Times
Chong Qing, China, Jinshangou Coal Mine
On November 2016, a gas explosion broke out at a coal mine in the southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing, killing 13 people, and many trapped in the mine.
Gas explosions inside mines are common in China. They are often caused when a flame or electrical spark ignites gas leaking from the coal seam. Poor ventilations have failed to prevent gas from being trapped, causing explosion.
A spokesperson from the government mentioned that struggling coal mines are more likely to overlook maintenance.
News source: ABC News
Terengganu, Malaysia, Petronas Gas Bhd
On May 2012, an explosion occurred at a Petronas gas processing plant in the GPP Complex A in Kerteh, injuring 23 and one death. The explosion occurred when Petronas was conducting maintenance work on the facilities.
According to a spokesperson from Petronas, the explosion is occurred because a non-standard operation maintenance works is being performed. The spokesperson has also acknowledged that further attention should be put on the correct and appropriate implementation of procedures in activities carried out by personnel in the front line. On top of that, if activities deviates from the work plan, there is a need to carry out reviews to ensure that new risks are identified and managed to prevent such accidents from happening.
News source: Rigzone
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