A solvents manufacturer has been fined following an explosion at its factory in the Scottish Borders.
The blast at the chemicals company in Walkerburn on 10 January 2020 resulted in a laboratory, which was part of the factory being demolished.
It was likely caused by excessive pentane vapour, generated by the company’s distillation process overheating and being ignited by the site’s extraction system.
No one was injured by the explosion.
A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found the chemical company had an inadequate system in place which failed to control the amount of steam and heat being generated during its distillation process. The company also failed to adequately detect any signs of overheating which could lead to flammable vapour being ignited.
HSE guidance can be found at: The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 – Fire and explosion (hse.gov.uk)
The Chemicals Company based in Walkerburn, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) and Section 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £40,000 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £3,000 at a local Court on 20 September 2024.
HSE inspector said: “This was a serious incident, and it is fortunate that no one was injured by the blast. The explosion could have been avoided had the chemicals simply carried out the correct control measures and safe working practices.”
After the explosion in January 2020, the company took several measures to prevent such incidents in the future:
- Improved Control Measures: They implemented more reliable control measures to manage the amount of steam and heat generated during the distillation process.
- Enhanced Detection Systems: The company upgraded their systems to better detect signs of overheating, which could lead to ignition of flammable vapours.
- Employee Training: The Chemical Company emphasized the importance of adequate training for employees to ensure they are well-versed in safe working practices and emergency procedures.
- Regular Safety Audits: They introduced more frequent safety audits to identify and mitigate potential risks proactively.
These steps were part of their commitment to improve safety standards and prevent any future accidents. At MBO Safety Services, we can provide such services to prevent these types of accidents. We provide site audits and suitable COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Assessments as well as adequate COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Training including Safe Use of Spill Kits to ensure safe working environments.
Companies looking for further advice or need assistance with any health and safety requirements can contact us by phone 08000 842297 or email info@mbo.ltd.