Accident: Universal Form Clamp Co. Explosion and Fire
Location: Location: Bellwood, IL
Accident Occurred On: 06/14/2006 | Final Report Released On: 04/10/2007
Accident Type: Flammable Vapor
Investigation Status: The CSB's final report was issued at a news conference in Chicago on April 10, 2007.
One fatality and five injuries resulted from an explosion and fire in a mixing room at the Universal Form Clamp facility. Workers were heating and mixing flammable solvents in an open top tank. During the heating process, there was a sudden evolution of flammable vapors that ignited, resulting in the explosion and fire.
Amend 1910.106 Flammable and Combustible Liquids to require facilities that handle flammable and combustible liquids to implement the requirements of 1910.38 Emergency Action Plans.
Amend 1910.38 Emergency Action Plans to require employers to conduct practice evacuation drills at least annually, but more frequently if necessary to ensure employees are prepared for emergencies.