CSB Sends Team to Texas Flash Fire Site
"The CSB has investigated too many incidents involving hot work – my thoughts go out to the workers and their families affected by this tragedy," said Chairperson Vanessa Allen Sutherland.
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board has sent an investigative team to the scene of an incident that injured seven workers – including three critically – on Aug. 12 at Sunoco Logistics Partners' terminal facility located in Nederland, Texas. CSB said initial inquiries revealed there was a flash fire during welding at the facility.
"Hot work is defined as burning, welding, or similar spark-producing operations that can ignite fires or explosions. Media reports state that all of the injured were contractors engaged in work activities on a crude oil pipeline connection," according to the agency's news release.
"The CSB has investigated too many incidents involving hot work – my thoughts go out to the workers and their families affected by this tragedy," said Chairperson Vanessa Allen Sutherland. "In an effort to warn of the dangers of hot work, the CSB has issued a wide range of material regarding the dangers of hot work including safety videos, a safety bulletin, and accident investigations."
The team is headed by Investigator-in-Charge Mark Wingard; Sutherland herself is taking part.