News Releases

CSB Releases New Safety Video

On 2020 Fire and Toxic Gas Release at Bio-Lab Facility in Westlake, Louisiana.

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Releases Investigation Update into Fatal Hydrogen Sulfide Release at PEMEX Deer Park Refinery in Deer Park, Texas

New Update from the CSB

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Deploys Team to Investigate Fatal Explosion at Givaudan Facility in Louisville, KY

CSB sends team to Louisville, KY

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Releases Investigation Update into July 2024 Hazardous Ammonia Release at Cuisine Solutions Facility in Virginia

CSB Releases Investigation Update

FY 2025 Public Business Meetings

Dates for Public Meetings

CSB Releases Safety Video on Hydrogen Chloride Release

At the Wacker Polysilicon facility in Charleston, Tennessee

CSB Releases Investigative Update into Chemical Eruption

At TS USA in Chattanooga, Tennessee

July Public Business Meeting

https://www.zoomgov.com/​j/​1608520161

CSB Issues Update for Investigation of Toxic Chemical Release at Dow Facility in Louisiana

CSB Releases Update

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Launches Investigation into Another Release of Toxic Hydrofluoric Acid at Honeywell Facility in Geismar, Louisiana

The CSB is deploying a team to investigate a release of highly toxic hydrofluoric acid (HF) that occurred last Friday, June 7, 2024.

Public Business Meeting Today

April Meeting

CSB Applauds Washington State New Refinery Safety Regulation

CSB Applauds New Regulations

CSB Has Largest Gains in Three Key Areas Among Very Small Agencies in Latest Federal Employee Survey

CSB Has Largest Gains in Three Key Areas for FEVS Survey

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Eliminates Long-Standing Investigation Backlog

Agency Eliminates Backlog

First public business meeting for FY 24 on October 26th

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1612673871

CSB Applauds New EPA Initiative on Safety at Chemical Facilities that Use Hydrogen Fluoride

New EPA Initiative Applauded by CSB

CSB Calls on Chemical Companies to Prepare for Harsh Hurricane Season

Extreme Weather Preparation

CSB Announces Public Business Meeting Dates

Meetings for FY 24

CSB Urges FERC to Address Hurricanes and Other High-Wind Extreme Weather Events

CSB Letter to FERC

CSB Cuts Report Back-Log by Two-Thirds in Just the Last Twelve Months

CSB Eliminates Two-Thirds of Back Log in 12 months

CSB Releases New Safety Video on 2019 Explosions and Fires

At the TPC Group Chemical Plant in Port Neches, Texas

CSB Urges FEMA to Include the Location of Chemical Facilities and Their Proximity to Communities in FEMA National Risk Index

CSB Letter to FEMA

CSB Releases Final Report

On 2020 Fatal Propylene Release and Explosion at the Watson Grinding facility in Houston, Texas

CSB Releases Final Report

Into Fatal Chemical Release at Wacker Polysilicon Facility in Tennessee

CSB Releases Investigation Update into 2022 Incident

BP-Husky Update

CSB Releases New Safety Video

On Explosion and Fire at the Husky Superior Refinery in Wisconsin

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Receives Two TELLY Awards

CSB Receives Two Silver TELLY Awards for Safety Videos

CSB Releases Final Report

Into 2021 Fatal Acid Release at Lyondellbasell La Porte Complex in La Porte, Texas

Investigation Closure Plan

Updated April 2023

Statement on Workers Memorial Day from U.S. Chemical Safety Board Chairperson Steve Owens

Statement from Chairperson Steve Owens

April 27 Public Business Meeting

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1613057790?pwd=QUp6aFdEQThIZUF1MFhXM3ZiSlppUT09

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Releases Final Report into 2020 Toxic Gas Release and Chemical Fire at Bio-Lab Facility in Westlake, LA

Final Bio-Lab Investigation

CSB Issues New Safety Alert Focused on the Potential Hazards of Emergency Discharges from Pressure Release Valves

New Safety Alert

February 3, 2023 Letter to EPA

On National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative

CSB Back to Three Board Members Again

New CSB Board Member

Updated Investigation Closure Plan - January 2023

Report Release Schedule

Details for January 26 Public Business Meeting

January Public Business Meeting

CSB Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Leadership Highlights Progress

Final Report into 2018 Husky Superior Refinery Explosion and Asphalt Fire in Wisconsin

CSB Releases Husky Report

CSB Releases New Chemical Incident Data and Calls for Increased Attention to Process Safety Management During Winter Period

Winterization and Updated Data

CSB Releases Final Report and Incident Animation for Kuraray Investigation

Kuraray Final Investigation Report Released

CSB Releases Final Investigation Report on 2016 Sunoco Oil Terminal Fire and Explosion in Texas

CSB Release Sunoco Report

CSB Deploys Team to Fatal Refinery Incident in Ohio

CSB Deploys to Ohio

CSB Announces Dates for Upcoming Public Meetings

FY 2023 Public Board Meetings

CSB Provides Guidance on Reporting Rule

New Guidance Document

Reporting of Accidental Releases

Reporting Rule Guidance

Investigation Closure Plan

U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board

CSB Releases Final Report into 2017 Pressure Vessel Explosion at Loy-Lange Box Company in St. Louis MO

View the full report

CSB Releases New Free Online Safety Training Application for Hazardous Chemicals

New Training Application

CSB Releases Chemical Incident Data from Reporting Rule

Updated Incident Data Available

CSB Business Meeting July 29th

Zoom Link to join the meeting: https://bit.ly/3vf2K1X

CSB Releases New Safety Video Incompatible Chemicals: Explosion at AB Specialty Silicones

New CSB Safety Video

CANCELLED - CSB will hold May 5 Public Meeting on Loy Lange Investigation Report

May 5th Public Meeting is Cancelled

CSB Releases New Safety Video Simultaneous Tragedy Fire at Evergreen Packaging

CSB Releases new Safety Video

CSB will hold April 28 Business Meeting - Registration Required

April 28 Business Meeting via Zoom

Statement from Chairman Katherine Lemos Welcoming Two New Board Members to the CSB

CSB Welcome Two New Board Members

CSB Held Quarterly Business Meeting

The CSB held its first quarterly business meeting of Fiscal Year 2022

CSB Quarterly Business Meeting October 29th at 1 pm EDT

Learn how to register for our next meeting

CSB Releases FY 2021 Impact Report

New Impact Report

CSB Chairman Katherine Lemos Testifies at Congressional Hearing

Hearing called Protecting Communities from Industrial Accidents: Revitalizing the Chemical Safety Board​

On September 24, 2021, at a virtual CSB public meeting, the Board approved and voted to adopt the final Investigation Report on the Evergreen Packaging Mill Chemical Fatal Fire occurring on September 21, 2020, in Canton, NC.

Board Action Report for Approval of Evergreen Investigation

On September 24, 2021, at a virtual CSB public meeting, the Board approved and voted to adopt the Investigation Report on the AB Specialty Silicones, LLC, Fatal Explosion and Fire occurring on May 3, 2019, in Waukegan, IL, with an amendments

Board Action Report for approval of ABSS investigations

MEDIA ADVISORY: CSB Held a Public Board Meeting on September 24, 2021, and Released Two Final Investigation Reports

CSB Held Public Meeting on AB Specialty Silicones and Evergreen Packaging Investigations

Update on LyondellBasell Deployment

Information from the CSB on the LyondellBasell chemical release incident in La Porte, TX.

CSB Deploying Two Senior Leadership Members to Rockton, IL

Two CSB Senior Leadership Members to Arrive in Illinois Today

Chemtool, Rockton, IL, Explosion and Fire

Incident in Rockton, IL

General Instructions for Completing the CSB's Accidental Release Form

Submitting the CSB's Accidental Release From

CSB Accidental Release Reporting Form

CSB form to report accidental releases

Register for the CSB's May 4 Public Board Meeting

https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJIsd-Gpqj4uE9pYMM9OFeI_McWjbP2o2Dw

MEDIA ADVISORY: CSB Will Hold Public Board Meeting on May 4th to Release Final Investigation Report

Public Meeting May 4 for Aghorn Report Release

April 13 Yenkin-Majestic Paint and OPC Polymers Deployment Update

Second Update from the CSB on the April 8, 2021, Explosion and Fire at the Yenkin-Majestic Paint and OPC Polymers Manufacturing Site in Columbus, Ohio.

CSB Deploying to Fatal Incident at Paint Plant

The CSB is deploying to the scene of a fatal explosion and fire at the Yenkin-Majestic Paints and OPC Polymers manufacturing site in Columbus, Ohio.

CSB Public Business Meeting Announced

Quarterly CSB Business Meeting will be April 2 at 11 am EDT

Third CSB Update on Poultry Plant Incident

Information Release from the CSB

CSB Deploying to Fatal Incident at Poultry Plant

The CSB is deploying to the scene of a fatal chemical release at Prime Pak Foods in Gainesville, GA.​

David LaCerte joins the CSB as Senior Advisor and Executive Counsel

Hiring of LaCerte Provides Critical Leadership and Support

CSB Deploys to Belle, WV

CSB deploys to fatal incident in Belle, WV

UPDATED: Information on the CSB's October 29th public business meeting

DIAL-IN INSTRUCTIONS UPDATED 10.28

Incident Reporting Rule Submission Form

Submission Form

Statement from CSB Chairman Katherine Lemos on Massive Explosion and Fire in Beirut

Statement from Chairman Lemos on AN Explosion in Beirut

CSB PUBLIC BUSINESS MEETING WILL BE RESCHEDULED

The CSB will be rescheduling the July 31st public business meeting due to technical difficulties. An updated federal register notice will be out shortly.

CSB Releases Airgas Safety Spotlight

Highlighting the Company's Actions Following a 2016 Nitrous Oxide Explosion

CSB Issues New Video Safety Message and Safety Alert

Focusing on the Prevention of Chemical Incidents During 2020 Hurricane Season

CSB Releases New Guidance Document

For Boards of Directors and Executives Focused on High Hazard Accident Prevention

CSB Best Practice Guidance

For Corporate Boards of Directors and Executives in the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry for Major Accident Prevention

Member Kulinowski Announces Departure from the CSB

Member Kulinowski Departing CSB

Chemical Safety Board Sunshine Act Meeting

Information on CSB's Public Business Meeting

Statement from Board Member Dr. Kristen Kulinowski as Senate Confirms Dr. Katherine Lemos to Chair of the Chemical Safety Board

Senate Confirms Dr. Lemos as Chair and Board Member

Statement from CSB Interim Executive Dr. Kristen Kulinowski on the Chemical Incident Reporting Rule

Statement from CSB Interim Executive Kristen Kulinowski on the CSB's Incident Reporting Rule

CSB Deploying to Chesapeake Energy in Burleson County, TX

The CSB is deploying a team to investigate the fire event at a gas well in Burleson County, TX, that occurred on Wednesday, January 29, 2020.

CSB Deploying to Fatal Incident in Texas

Aghorn Energy Fatal Chemical Release

Next CSB Public Business Meeting October 30th at 11 am

First FY20 Business Meeting will be October 30th

CSB Factual Update into April 2019 KMCO Fire and Explosion

CSB Releases New Factual Update

CSB September Public Business Meeting

Next CSB Business Meeting is September 17, 2019

CSB Releases New Safety Digest on Worker Participation to Help Prevent Catastrophic Chemical Incidents

CSB Releases New Safety Digest Focused on Worker Participation

Calls Impersonating CSB Investigators

Law enforcement officials have once again been made aware of a recent wave of scams where callers identify themselves as a federal officer and instruct people to provide confidential information to avoid fines. These phone calls are fraudulent. Federal agencies do not call or e-mail individuals threatening them to provide personal information or send money. If you have been contacted by someone claiming to be a representative from the CSB, please contact [email protected].

CSB Releases Final Report into Fatal 2014 Incident at DuPont La Porte Facility; Final Report Cites Numerous Safety Deficiencies

Final DuPont Investigation Reports Numerous Safety Definiciences

Chemical Safety Board Deploying to Site of Refinery Explosion and Fire Outside Philadelphia, PA

CSB Deploying to Philadelphia Refinery Fire

CSB Public Meeting is June 25th

CSB Public Meeting will be June 25th in Washington DC

CSB Deploying to AB Speciality Silicones

Explosion and Fire Occurred on May 3, 2019, in Waukegan, IL

Statement from the US Chemical Safety Board on Recent Tank Fires in Deer Park, TX

Statement on CSB Deployment

CSB Safety Spotlight: The Importance of Industry Safety Guidelines, Codes, and Standards

New CSB Safety Spotlight

CSB 2020 Budget Justification

CSB Releases 2020 Budget Request

CSB Federal Register Notice for March 12 Business Meeting

CSB March Public Business Meeting

CSB Extends Deadline for "Call to Action: Combustible Dust" to December 31, 2018

There is still time to submit your answers to the CSB's "Call to Action: Combustible Dust"

CSB Public Meeting

CSB Meeting 10.24.18

CSB and ACS Issue Joint Back to School Safety Message

Back to School Safety: The Importance of Laboratory Safety in the Classroom A Joint Safety Statement by Board Member and Interim Executive Kristen Kulinowski of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board and 2018 President Peter K. Dorhout of the American Chemical Society

Back to School Safety: The Importance of Laboratory Safety in the Classroom

A Joint Safety Statement by Board Member and Interim Executive Kristen Kulinowski of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board and 2018 President Peter K. Dorhout of the American Chemical Society

CSB Releases Contractor Safety Digest

On the Importance of Contractor Selection and Oversight

Dr. Kristen Kulinowski Now Serving as Interim Executive Authority

Dr. Kulinowski is Interim Executive Authority

Preventive Maintenance is Not a Static Plan

A Joint Safety Statement by Chairwoman Vanessa Allen Sutherland of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board and President Frank Reiner of The Chlorine Institute

CSB's FY 19 Budget Request

FY 19 Budget Request

Update on the CSB’s Ongoing Investigation into the Fatal Gas Well Explosion in Oklahoma

Update on CSB's ongoing investigation in Oklahoma

CSB Will Investigate Fatal Well Explosion in Oklahoma

CSB Investigating Fatal Well Explosion in OK

CSB to Hold November 14 Public Business Meeting in D.C.

Information on the CSB's upcoming public business meeting

Statement from CSB Chairperson Vanessa Allen Sutherland on CSB Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey Results

Statement from CSB Chairperson Vanessa Allen Sutherland

CSB Releases New Safety Video into 2016 ExxonMobil Fire at Baton Rouge Refinery

CSB Releases New Safety Video

CSB Releases Factual Update on Ongoing Investigation into Midland Resource Recovery

CSB Releases Factual Update

CSB Releases Final Report into 2016 Refinery Fire that Seriously Injured Four Workers

CSB releases Safety Bulletin into 2016 fire at Exxon Baton Rouge Refinery

CSB Urges Oil and Chemical Facilities to Take Special Safety Precautions during Startups Following Hurricane Harvey

CSB Issues "Safety Alert"

Statement from CSB Chairperson on Fatal Explosion in Barbour County, WV

Statement from CSB Chairperson

Statement from Chairperson Vanessa Allen Sutherland on the California Department of Industrial Relations Approval of New Refinery Safety Rules

California Approves New Refinery Safety Rules

CSB Releases Revised Freedom Industries Report

Link to Revised Report

CSB Sending Denver Based Investigative Team to Examine Fatal Home Explosion Caused by Leaking Gas Well

CSB examining house explosion near Denver, CO

CSB Releases Final Report into 2014 Freedom Industries Mass Contamination of Charleston, West Virginia Drinking Water; Final Report notes Shortcomings in Communicating Risks to Public, and Lack of Chemical Tank Maintenance Requirements

Report Includes Lessons Learned and Safety Recommendations to Prevent a Similar Incident from Occurring​

Webcast for Tonight's Public Meeting

Link to Webcast http://www.dobilav.com/webcast

Chemical Safety Board to Convene September 28, 2016 Public Meeting in Charleston, WV to Release Final Report and Safety Recommendations Resulting from Freedom Industries Investigation

CSB will hold public meeting in Charleston, WV to release final report into Freedom chemical release

US Chemical Safety Board will hold Sept 21 Business Meeting in Washington, DC

The Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) will convene a public meeting on September 21, 2016, starting at 1:00 p.m. EDT in Washington, DC, at the CSB offices located at 1750 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Suite 910.

LIVE STREAM OF CSB TESORO MARTINEZ NEWS CONFERENCE ON FACEBOOK

Click for link

CSB Adds Emergency Planning and Response to Most Wanted Safety Improvement Program

CSB Adds Emergency Response and Planning to Most Wanted Safety Improvement Progra

Chemical Safety Board Deploying to Fire at Enterprises Product Partners

CSB deploying to incident in Pascagoula, Mississippi

CSB to Hold Interim Public Meeting in Houston, Texas, September 30, 2015; Board will Consider Recommendations Stemming from Fatal Accident at DuPont La Porte Facility

CSB to hold public meeting in Houston, TX

Presentation from the CSB's July 22 Business Meeting

Staff presentation at the CSB's July 22nd Business Meeting in Washington, DC

Chemical Safety Board (CSB) to Hold July 22 Public Business Meeting to Discuss Chemical Accident Investigations and Recommendations; May Vote on Caribbean Petroleum Report

Washington, DC, July 15, 2015 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) will hold a public business meeting on Wednesday, July 22, 2015, to discuss chemical safety issues.

CSB Will Hold Two June 2015 Public Meetings in Washington, DC

The US Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced that the board will host two public meetings in June 2015 in order to increase dialogue with CSB stakeholders.

Houston Chronicle: Hazardous work takes toll on Latinos By Rafael Moure-Eraso March 20, 2015

Houston Chronicle Op-Ed by CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso

Statement by CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Regarding the Federal Appeals Court Action on Jurisdiction to Investigate Deepwater Horizon Accident

Statement from CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso

CSB 2016 Budget Request

US Chemical Safety Board FY 2016 Budget Request

CSB Releases Safety Bulletin on Anhydrous Ammonia Incident near Mobile, Alabama Safety Bulletin Notes Five Key Lessons to Prevent Hydraulic Shock

CSB Releases Safety Bulletin into 2010 Anhydrous Ammonia Release

CSB to Hold Public Meeting in East Rutherford, NJ to Hear Findings from US Ink and Millard Investigations

CSB will convene public meeting on January 15th in East Rutherford, NJ

CSB Releases Board Approved Regulatory Report on Chevron Refinery Fire - Proposes a More Rigorous Refinery Industry Regulatory System in California

Regulatory Report on Chevron Refinery Accident

Statement from Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso on Decision from the US Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit Affirming CSB Authority to Investigate the April 2010 Blowout and Explosion in the Gulf of Mexico

Yesterday the U. S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit affirmed the CSB’s authority to investigate the tragic April 2010 blowout and explosion in the Gulf of Mexico.

CSB Chairperson Moure-Eraso Warns About Danger of Hot Work on Tanks Containing Biological or Organic Material

Earlier this month a team of CSB investigators deployed to the Omega Protein facility in Moss Point, Mississippi, where a tank explosion on July 28, 2014, killed a contract worker and severely injured another.

The Danger of Combustible Dust - NYT Op-ed

By Rafael Moure-Eraso

Statement of Rafael Moure-Eraso, Chairperson of the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB), on the Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces Executive Order

CSB Chairperson Applauds "Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces” Executive Order

CSB Investigator Johnnie Banks Discusses Ongoing Investigation into January 9, 2014, Catastrophic Chemical Leak at Freedom Industries in Charleston, WV.

Preliminary Findings to be Released at July 16 Public Meeting in Charleston, WV.

Final Tesoro Investigation Report Approved at Public Meeting in Anacortes, WA on May 1, 2014

Link to Final Report

CSB Responses to Tesoro Public Comments

Public Comments and CSB Staff Responses

Testimony of U.S. Chemical Safety Board Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso at March 6, 2014, Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Hearing

Hearing Entitled “Preventing Potential Chemical Threats and Improving Safety: Oversight of the President’s Executive Order on Improving Chemical Facility Safety and Security”

CSB Testimony from Transportation and Infrastructure Field Hearing on Charleston, WV Chemical Spill

CSB Testimony from Transportation and Infrastructure Field Hearing on Charleston, WV Chemical Spill

CSB Investigation Finds 2010 Tesoro Refinery Fatal Explosion Resulted from High Temperature Hydrogen Attack Damage to Heat Exchanger

Company Failed to Apply Inherently Safer Technology, Did Not Install Damage-Resistant Materials. State and National Chemical Safety Regulations Designed to Protect Workers and Surrounding Communities Should be Strengthened, Draft Report Says

"The Next Accident Awaits"

In New York Times op-ed, CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso says "The United States is facing an industrial chemical safety crisis."

Statement from CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure Eraso on High School Laboratory Fire in New York City

Statement from CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso on high school lab accidents

CSB to Hold Public Meeting on January 30, 2014, in Anacortes, WA, to Release Tesoro Investigation Report

CSB will release its final report into the 2010 fatal refinery accident at a public meeting in Anacortes, WA, on January 30, 2014.

In Wake of Chevron 2012 Pipe Rupture and Fire in Bay Area CSB Draft Report Proposes Overhaul of Refinery Industry Regulatory System in California and Urges Adoption of the Safety Case Regime to Prevent Major Chemical Accidents

In Wake of Chevron 2012 Pipe Rupture and Fire in Bay Area, CSB Draft Report Proposes Overhaul of Refinery Industry Regulatory System in California; Urges Adoption of the “Safety Case” Regime to Prevent Major Chemical Accidents

CSB Releases Safety Message on Preventing Accidents in High School Chemistry Labs

“After the Rainbow" focuses on potential dangers in high school chemistry laboratories

Statement of Christina Morgan, MPH, Recommendations Specialist on behalf of the US Chemical Safety Board; EO 13650 Improving Chemical Facility Safety and Security Listening Session November 15, 2013

Statement of the Christina Morgan, US Chemical Safety Board Recommendations Specialist; on Executive Order 13650 Improving Chemical Facility Safety and Security Listening Session

CSB Releases Safety Video on 2009 Fatal Blast at NDK Crystal Animation Depicts Stress Corrosion Cracking; Vessels Were Not Inspected or Tested

CSB Releases Safety Video on 2009 Fatal Blast at NDK Crystal Animation Depicts Stress Corrosion Cracking; Vessels Were Not Inspected or Tested

Statement from CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso on the Passing of Noted Chemical Process Safety Expert Professor Trevor Kletz

Statement from CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso on the Passing of Noted Chemical Process Safety Expert Professor Trevor Kletz

CSB Announces Public Meeting to Release Case Study and New Safety Video on 2009 Accident at NDK Crystal

CSB Announces Public Meeting to Release Case Study and New Safety Video on 2009 Accident at NDK Crystal

Statement from Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Applauding the Recent Action by the City of Richmond, California to Adopt CSB Safety Recommendations

Statement from Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Applauding the Recent Action by the City of Richmond, California to Adopt CSB Safety Recommendations

CSB Releases Video Documenting the Blast Damage in West, Texas

On May 3, 2013, U.S. Chemical Safety Board investigator Jerad Denton took a film crew into West, Texas, to document the level of community damage from the fertilizer explosion that killed 14 and injured about 200 others. This 3-minute video shows the devastation.

Follow Updates and Share info on CSB's Investigation of West, Texas, Fertilizer Explosion and Fire

http://Facebook.com/Westexplosion

CSB Postpones April 24 Public Meeting in Washington on Fatigue and CSB Recommendations

Meeting postponed due to CSB deployment to West Fertilizer Plant Accident

Chemical Safety Board Deploying to West Fertilizer Accident

Investigators will arrive onsite Thursday

CSB Draft Interim Report on 2012 Chevron Fire Notes Company Failed to Apply Inherently Safer Design That Could Have Prevented the Accident

Missed opportunities to apply inherently safer design, failure to identify and evaluate damage mechanism hazards, and the lack of effective safeguards culminated in the vapor cloud release and massive fire that occurred at the Chevron refinery on August 6, 2012, a draft report by the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) has found. The investigation team concluded that enhanced regulatory oversight with greater worker involvement and public participation are needed to improve oil refinery safety.

Chevron Draft Interim Report for Public Comment

Link to the CSB's Draft Report for Public Comment

CSB Investigators to Release New Findings and Analysis of Regulatory Oversight Related to the August 6, 2012, Chevron Accident TODAY April 5, 2013, at East Bay Legislators' Public Inquiry

MEETING AVAILABLE VIA WEBCAST AT: http://www.kcrt.com/kcrt-live.html

Statement of CSB Chairperson Dr. Rafael Moure-Eraso on Court Decision in Deepwater Horizon/Macondo Investigation Case

Statement of CSB Chairperson Dr. Rafael Moure-Eraso on Court Decision in Deepwater Horizon/Macondo Investigation Case

CSB Announces April 19 Public Meeting in Richmond, California

CSB will Vote on the Interim Report and Safety Recommendations Resulting from Chevron Refinery Investigation​

CSB Announces Availability of Draft Fatigue Evaluation for Public Comment, April 24 Public Meeting in Washington, DC

Today the U.S. Chemical Safety Board announced that it will hold a public meeting in Washington, DC, to discuss the status of its March 2007 recommendation that the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the United Steelworkers International Union (USW) jointly lead the development of an ANSI consensus standard with guidelines for fatigue prevention in the refinery and petrochemical industries. The recommendation was the result of the CSB’s investigation into the 2005 fire and explosion at the B​

Fatigue Evaluation for Public Comment

Fatigue Evaluation for Public Comment

In Cooperation with Cal OSHA CSB Releases Technical Report on Chevron 2012 Pipe Rupture and Fire Extensive Sulfidation Corrosion Noted

The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) and the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) today released a technical evaluation report on piping samples taken from the Chevron Refinery in Richmond, California, where a hydrocarbon release and massive fire occurred on August 6, 2012. Cal/OSHA participated in this technical evaluation as part of its enforcement investigation.

CSB to Hold Public Meeting Tonight, January 15, 2014, in Richmond, California - Webcast and Public Comment Available

At the public meeting, the Board will consider and vote on the draft regulatory report of the August 6, 2012, fire at the Chevron refinery.

CSB Receives Peer Awards for Three Safety Videos from Television, Internet and Video Association of D.C.

CSB Chair Moure-Eraso Addresses Nationwide Meeting of International Code Council, Saluting Progress on Key Safety Issues and Encouraging Further Code Action on Combustible Dust Hazards

CSB Chair Moure-Eraso Addresses Nationwide Meeting of International Code Council, Saluting Progress on Key Safety Issues and Encouraging Further Code Action on Combustible Dust Hazards

Statement of CSB Chairperson Dr. Rafael Moure Richmond City Council Meeting on September 11, 2012

Statement of CSB Chairperson Dr. Rafael Moure Richmond City Council Meeting on September 11, 2012

Statement of CSB Chairperson Dr. Rafael Moure Richmond City Council Meeting on September 11, 2012

CSB Releases Photos of Vapor Cloud Involved in August 6 Accident at Chevron Refinery in Richmond, CA

In the first five photos the vapor cloud is whitish in color but after the cloud is ignited dark black smoke is visible.

CSB Releases Photos of Vapor Cloud Involved in August 6 Accident at Chevron Refinery in Richmond, CA

CSB to Pursue Full Investigation of August 6 Fire at Chevron Refinery in Richmond, California

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) will pursue a full investigation to determine the causes of Monday’s fire at the Chevron oil refinery in Richmond, California, northeast of San Francisco, the agency announced today.

CSB to Pursue Full Investigation of August 6 Fire at Chevron Refinery in Richmond, California

CSB Deploying to Fire and Explosion at the Chevron Refinery in Richmond California

A seven-member investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the scene of an explosion and fire that occurred Monday at the Chevron Refinery in Richmond, CA.

CSB Deploying to Fire and Explosion at the Chevron Refinery in Richmond California

CSB Board Member John Bresland to Retire on August 31

Long-time U.S. Chemical Safety Board Member John Bresland will retire from the agency on August 31, the CSB announced today. Mr. Bresland was first appointed to the agency in August 2002 by President George W. Bush and then was re-appointed to a second five-year term in March 2008, serving as CSB chairperson from March 2008 to June 2010.

CSB Board Member John Bresland to Retire on August 31

CSB Posts Presentations from July 23 and 24 Public Hearing in Houston, Texas

CSB Hosts Webinar on Second Day of Public Hearing on Safety Performance Indicators

The CSB invites you to attend the Safety Performance Indicators Public Meeting Webinar on July 24.

At the Time of 2010 Gulf Blowout, Transocean, BP, Industry Associations, and Government Offshore Regulators Had Not Effectively Learned Critical Lessons from 2005 BP Refinery Explosion in Implementing Safety Performance Indicators

Investigators Cite Progress Overseas and in U.S. Refining and Chemical Sectors, Conclude Offshore Oil Exploration and Production Safety Will Benefit from Effective Use of Major Accident Indicators

CSB Investigation: At the Time of 2010 Gulf Blowout, Transocean, BP, Industry Associations, and Government Offshore Regulators Had Not Effectively Learned Critical Lessons from 2005 BP Refinery Explosion in Implementing Safety Performance Indicators

CSB Hosts Webinar on Second Day of Public Hearing on Safety Performance Indicators

Board Concludes American Petroleum Institute Has Made “Acceptable” Progress on Recommendation to Develop Process Safety Indicators for Onshore Industries

In Formal Papers Submitted for Public Hearing in Houston, CSB Offshore Safety Consultants Examine Performance Indicators as an Effective Way to Prevent Catastrophic Accidents like Deepwater Horizon

In Formal Papers Submitted for Public Hearing in Houston, CSB Offshore Safety Consultants Examine Performance Indicators as an Effective Way to Prevent Catastrophic Accidents like Deepwater Horizon

Better safety data could help prevent oil industry disasters - By Rafael Moure-Eraso

Click the following link to view the article on chron.com - http://bit.ly/Lxc81F

CSB Announces Expert Panel Participants for Two Day Hearing on Safety Performance Indicators in Houston, Texas, on July 23-24

CSB Announces Expert Panel Participants for Two Day Hearing on Safety Performance Indicators in Houston, Texas, on July 23-24

US Chemical Safety Board Releases 2012 – 2016 Strategic Plan

CSB releases strategic plan.

Chemical Safety Board Strategic Plan 2012 - 2016

CSB Releases New Safety Video on Inherently Safer Design and Technology: “Inherently Safer: The Future of Risk Reduction” Examines how Industry Can Eliminate or Reduce Hazards

CSB Announces Two Day Public Hearing to Release Preliminary Findings into the Macondo Blowout and Explosion in Gulf of Mexico; CSB Board Members and Staff will Hear from Experts on the Importance of Using Effective Safety Indicators

CSB Announces Two Day Public Hearing to Release Preliminary Findings into the Macondo Blowout and Explosion in Gulf of Mexico; CSB Board Members and Staff will Hear from Experts on the Importance of Using Effective Safety Indicators for Major Accident Prevention

Rafael Moure-Eraso: It's time for government and industry to adopt inherently safer technology

June 23, 2012, Op-Ed in the Charleston Gazette

CSB Deploys Team to El Dorado, Arkansas to Investigate Fatal Hot Work Explosion

CSB Commends Massachusetts Authorities for Issuing Tough Hazardous Materials Storage and Processing Rules

CSB Commends Massachusetts Authorities for Issuing Tough Hazardous Materials Storage and Processing Rules

Statement from CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure Eraso on NAS Study on the Use and Storage of MIC at Bayer CropScience

Yesterday the US Chemical Safety Board received a board briefing from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS). CSB Board Members and staff will be reviewing the final report in detail over the next few weeks and attending the NAS public meeting in Institute, WV.

Statement from U.S. Chemical Safety Board Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso on Workers Memorial Day

CSB Releases New Safety Video on Fatal Hot Work Explosion at DuPont Facility in Buffalo; "Hot Work: Hidden Hazards" Shows Danger of Inadequate Gas Monitoring Safety Video Follows Release of the CSB's Investigative Report

CSB Releases New Safety Video on Fatal Hot Work Explosion at DuPont Facility in Buffalo; “Hot Work: Hidden Hazards” Shows Danger of Inadequate Gas Monitoring Safety Video Follows Release of the CSB’s Investigative Report – Approved at a Public Meeting Yesterday Evening

CSB Report on Fatal Welding Explosion at DuPont Buffalo Facility Finds Company Overlooked Hazards; Recommendation Calls on Company to Monitor Flammable Vapor Inside Storage Tanks During Hot Work

In a draft report released today at a news conference in Buffalo, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) determined that an explosion that killed one and injured another contract welder on November 9, 2010, was caused by the ignition of flammable vinyl fluoride inside a large process tank, a hazard which had been overlooked by DuPont engineers.

CSB Investigation into Macondo Blowout and Explosion in Gulf of Mexico Continues; Two Public Hearings and Interim Reports Scheduled for this Year

CSB Investigation into Macondo Blowout and Explosion in Gulf of Mexico Continues; Two Public Hearings and Interim Reports Scheduled for this Year

CSB Report on Fatal Welding Explosion at DuPont Buffalo Facility Finds Company Overlooked Hazards; Recommendation Calls on Company to Monitor Flammable Vapor Inside Storage Tanks During Hot Work

CSB Report on Fatal Welding Explosion at DuPont Buffalo Facility Finds Company Overlooked Hazards; Recommendation Calls on Company to Monitor Flammable Vapor Inside Storage Tanks During Hot Work

CSB to Hold Public Meeting to Vote on DuPont Investigative Report

The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) announces that it will hold a public meeting on April 19, 2012, in Buffalo, New York, to present the findings from its investigation of a flammable vapor explosion on November 9, 2010, at the E.I DuPont de Nemours and Co. Inc. chemical plant in Buffalo, New York.

CSB to Hold Public Meeting to Vote on DuPont Investigative Report

The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) announces that it will hold a public meeting on April 19, 2012, in Buffalo, New York, to present the findings from its investigation of a flammable vapor explosion on November 9, 2010, at the E.I DuPont de Nemours and Co. Inc. chemical plant in Buffalo, New York,. The incident involved a contract welder and foreman who were repairing an agitator support atop an atmospheric storage tank containing flammable vinyl fluoride (VF). The VF vapor from interconnected, in-service process tanks flowed undetected into the tank and ignited when the welder was repairing the agitator support assembly. The welder died instantly and the foreman was burned.

CSB Applauds AIChE's Response to Including Reactive Hazard Awareness in College Chemical Engineering Curriculum

CSB Applauds AIChE’s Response to Including Reactive Hazard Awareness in College Chemical Engineering Curriculum; a Recommendation Resulting from the Fatal Accident at T2 Laboratories – the CSB Classifies Action as “Closed - Exceeds Recommended Action"

Board Requests Comments on its Draft Strategic Plan for 2012 to 2016

Board Requests Comments on its Draft Strategic Plan for 2012 to 2016

Draft Strategic Plan 2012 - 2016 for Public Comment

CSB Releases New DVD Compilation

Team Lead Johnnie Banks' Statement from the CSB's 3.16.2012 Media Availability on Ongoing Investigation into March 5 HF Release at the CITGO Refinery in Corpus Christi

Statement on Ongoing Investigation into the March 5 Release of HF at the CITGO EAST Refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas

Statement from CSB Investigators

Text of Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso's Speech to the United Steel Workers

CSB Develops Policy on Employee Participation in Investigations

CSB Develops Policy on Employee Participation in Investigations

CSB Deploys to Investigate Release of Hydrofluoric Acid at CITGO Refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas

CSB Deploys to CITGO Accident

CSB Chairperson Moure-Eraso in Lexington (KY) Herald Leader: Nine years after Corbin explosion, still no dust regulations

Board Requests Budget of $11,403,000 for Fiscal Year 2013 - Budget will Support Hiring of Chemical Incident Investigators and Continued Production of High Quality Investigative Reports

Board Requests Budget of $11,403,000 for Fiscal Year 2013 – Budget will Support Hiring of Chemical Incident Investigators and Continued Production of High Quality Investigative Reports

CSB's FY 2013 Budget Justification

Statement from CSB Chairman Moure-Eraso on the Four Year Anniversary of the Catastrophic Imperial Sugar Explosion – Chairman Continues to Encourage Industry to Support a Combustible Dust Standard and Applauds Success of Recommendations

CSB Safety Recommendations from Ghent, West Virginia Propane Explosion Largely Adopted, Effecting Life-Saving Change

Monday, January 30, marks the fifth anniversary of a terrible tragedy that occurred in Ghent, West Virginia – a propane explosion that took the lives of four people and injured six others at a Little General convenience store. The accident occurred as an inexperienced worker attempted to transfer propane from a tank located against an outside wall of the store.

Statement of CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso on OSHA's Proposal to Include an "Unclassified Hazards" Category in the Current Proposal to Adopt the UN's Globally Harmonized System for Classification and Labeling of Chemicals

Statement of CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso on OSHA's Proposal to Include an "Unclassified Hazards" Category in the Current Proposal to Adopt the UN's Globally Harmonized System for Classification and Labeling of Chemicals

CSB Releases New Safety Video on Three Accidents that Occurred in the Past Year Involving Flash Fires at Hoeganaes Corp. in Gallatin, Tennessee, Killing Five

Washington DC, January 5, 2012 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new safety video depicting three accidents involving combustible iron dust at the Hoeganaes Corporation in Gallatin, Tennessee.

CSB Releases Final Investigation Report on Three Accidents at the Hoeganaes Iron Powder Facility in Gallatin, Tennessee

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board today released its final report on three accidents that occurred in 2011 at the Hoeganaes powdered metals plant in Gallatin, Tennessee. Flash fires and an explosion killed a total of five workers and injured three others.

Statement of CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso Following Fatal Fire at Eastern Ohio Hazardous Waste Storage and Processing Facility Tragedy Emphasizes Importance of an National Fire Code for Hazardous Waste Handling

Statement of CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso Following Fatal Fire at Eastern Ohio Hazardous Waste Storage and Processing Facility – Tragedy Emphasizes Importance of an National Fire Code for Hazardous Waste Handling

Presentation from the CSB's Public Meeting in Gallatin, TN on Hoeganaes Investigation

CSB to Hold November 16, 2011, Public Meeting in Gallatin, Tennessee to Release Findings and Draft Recommendations into Three Combustible Iron Dust Related Accidents that Occurred at the Hoeganaes Plant in 2011

CSB Report Finds that Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Facilities Present Hazards to Members of the Public, Especially Children; CSB Issues Recommendations to EPA, State Regulators, NFPA, and API Aimed at Increasing Oil Site Safety and Security

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new study of explosions at oil and gas production sites across the U.S., identifying 26 incidents since 1983 that killed 44 members of the public and injured 25 others under the age of 25, and is calling for new public protection measures at the sites.

CSB Releases New Video on Laboratory Safety at Academic Institutions

CSB Releases New Video on Laboratory Safety at Academic Institutions

CSB Releases Investigation into 2010 Texas Tech Laboratory Accident; Case Study Identifies Systemic Deficiencies in University Safety Management Practices

CSB Releases Investigation into 2010 Texas Tech Laboratory Accident; Case Study Identifies Systemic Deficiencies in University Safety Management Practices

CSB to Hold Webinar on Wednesday October 19 to Release Texas Tech Laboratory Accident Case Study

Statement by CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Congratulating Board Members William Wright and William Wark on Completion of Their Terms

CSB Votes to Approve Final Report on Three Accidents at DuPont Belle, West Virginia Plant following Public Comment Period

Investigation Found Lack of Safe Equipment Design, Ineffective Mechanical Integrity Programs, and Failure to Investigate Near Misses

Statement by CSB Board Member William Wark Commending the State of Connecticut for Enacting Legislation to Prohibit Flammable Gas Blows at Power Plants

Statement by CSB Board Member William Wark Commending the State of Connecticut for Enacting Legislation to Prohibit Flammable Gas Blows at Power Plants

CSB Declares Florida's Failure to Adopt CSB Recommendation on Protecting Public Workers "Unacceptable" Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso asks State to Reconsider Legislation

CSB Declares Florida's Failure to Adopt CSB Recommendation on Protecting Public Workers "Unacceptable" Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso asks State to Reconsider Legislation

CSB Investigation Finds Three DuPont Accidents in Belle, West Virginia, Resulted from Numerous Safety Deficiencies including Lack of Safe Equipment Design, Ineffective Mechanical Integrity Programs, and Incomplete Investigations of Previous Near Misses

CSB Investigation Finds Three DuPont Accidents in Belle, West Virginia, Resulted from Numerous Safety Deficiencies including Lack of Safe Equipment Design, Ineffective Mechanical Integrity Programs, and Incomplete Investigations of Previous Near Misses

Statements from News Conference to Release Dupont Investigation for Public Comment 7.7.2011

Statement from the CSB's News Conference on Hoeganaes Investigation 6.3.2011

Statement from the CSB's News Conference on Hoeganaes Investigation 6.3.2011

CSB Deploys to a Third Accident at Hoeganaes Corporation Metal Powder Plant in Gallatin, Tennessee

CSB Deploys to a Third Accident at Hoeganaes Corporation Metal Powder Plant in Gallatin, Tennessee

Statement by CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Commending Connecticut House of Representatives for Passing Bill Prohibiting Natural Gas Blows at Power Plants

Statement by CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Commending Connecticut House of Representatives for Passing Bill Prohibiting Natural Gas Blows at Power Plants

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Continues Investigation of Two Accidents at the Hoeganaes Corporation Facility

Nashville, Tennessee, May 11, 2011 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released test results confirming preliminary conclusions that two flash fires which occurred at the Hoeganaes Corporation plant in Gallatin, Tennessee—one fatal—involved the combustion of iron powder which had accumulated throughout the facility and became airborne in combustible concentrations. A flash fire on January 31st killed one worker and seriously burned another. A similar fire occurred on March 29th and caused one injury.

Statement from U.S. Chemical Safety Board Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso on Workers Memorial Day

Statement from CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso on Workers' Memorial Day

Statement from U.S. Chemical Safety Board Chairman Dr. Rafael Moure-Eraso on One-Year Anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon Accident

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Investigation Team Deploys to Hawaiian Fireworks Storage Facility Explosion Site; Five Fatally Injured

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) has deployed a four-person team to the site of an explosion in a fireworks storage facility near Honolulu, Hawaii. According to media reports, the incident occurred in a bunker used to store confiscated fireworks at Donaldson Enterprises, Inc. on Friday April 8. ​

U.S. Chemical Safety Board Investigation Team Deploys to Hawaiian Fireworks Storage Facility Explosion Site; Five Fatally Injured

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) has deployed a four-person team to the site of an explosion in a fireworks storage facility near Honolulu, Hawaii. According to media reports, the incident occurred in a bunker used to store confiscated fireworks at Donaldson Enterprises, Inc. on Friday April 8. ​

One Year After Catastrophic Accident at the Tesoro Refinery CSB Releases Video Safety Message; Calls on Industry to Invest in Preventive Maintenance

Washington DC April 1, 2011 – Marking the one year anniversary of the tragic accident at the Tesoro Refinery in Anacortes, Washington, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) released a video safety message.​

CSB Deploys to Site of Flash Fire at Hoeganaes Corporation Incident is the Second to Occur Since January

CSB Investigators Deploying to Fatal Explosion and Fire in Louisville Kentucky

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB), is deploying to the scene of a fatal accident at Carbide Industries, a producer of calcium carbide products located in Louisville, Kentucky.

CSB Investigators Deploying to Fatal Explosion and Fire in Louisville Kentucky

CSB Releases New Safety Video: "Fire in the Valley" Depicts Catastrophic Explosion and Fire at Bayer CropScience Facility in 2008

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new safety video depicting events leading to the August 28, 2008, catastrophic explosion and fire at the Bayer CropScience facility in Institute, WV, that fatally injured two workers.

Statement by CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso on Adoption of Updated Purging Requirements by the Plumbing Industry

Statement by CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso on Adoption of Updated Purging Requirements by the Plumbing Industry

CSB Continues Investigation of Fatal Fire at Hoeganaes Corporation Located Outside of Nashville, Tennessee

Washington DC, February 16, 2011 – A five-person investigation team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) continues its investigation into the scene of a fatal flash fire at Hoeganaes Corporation, a producer of powdered iron located about twenty miles outside of Nashville, TN.

Final Budget Justification FY 2012

For fiscal year (FY) 2012, the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) requests a budget of $12.80 million, an increase of $94,000 above the FY 2011 budget request of $12.71 million.

CSB Chairperson Moure-Eraso Encourages Adoption of Legislation to Permanently Ban Gas Blows in Connecticut

CSB Chairperson Moure-Eraso Encourages Adoption of Legislation to Permanently Ban Gas Blows in Connecticut​

CSB Releases New Safety Video on One Year Anniversary of Kleen Energy; “Deadly Practices” Focuses on ConAgra and Kleen Energy Explosions to Show Hazards of Gas Releases

Entitled “Deadly Practices,” the video includes animations that show the hazards of releasing gas into areas where it can accumulate, ignite, and kill or injure workers or members of the public.

CSB Releases Case Study on Fatal 2008 Accident at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Plant in Houston; Cites Need for Emergency Drills, Following Pressure Vessel Codes

Washington DC, January 30, 2011 - A U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) case study released today on the 2008 heat exchanger rupture and ammonia release at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Houston, Texas, identifies gaps in facility emergency response training and calls for increased adherence to existing industry codes.

CSB Issues Report on 2008 Bayer CropScience Explosion: Finds Multiple Deficiencies Led to Runaway Chemical Reaction; Recommends State Create Chemical Plant Oversight Regulation

Institute, West Virginia, January 20, 2011 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released its final report on the August 28, 2008, Bayer CropScience pesticide manufacturing unit explosion that killed two workers and injured eight others. In a report scheduled for Board consideration at a public meeting this evening in Institute, the CSB found multiple deficiencies during a lengthy startup process that resulted in a runaway chemical reaction inside a residue treater pressure vessel. The vessel ultimately over pressurized and exploded. The vessel careened into the methomyl pesticide manufacturing unit leaving a huge fireball in its wake.

CSB Announces Panel Participants for January 20 Public Meeting on Bayer CropScience Investigation

Washington, DC, January 14, 2011 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced the panel participants for its public meeting to present findings from Bayer CropScience investigation, which will be held on Thursday, January 20, 2011, at West Virginia State University in Institute, WV.

CSB Commends West Virginia Action on CSB Recommendation that Propane Technicians be Trained and Licensed; Action Follows Tragic Explosion at Convenience Store

CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso today commended West Virginia for its effecctive response to a CSB recommendation that propane technicians in the state be trained, certified, and licensed.

CSB to Hold Public Meeting in Institute, West Virginia, on January 20, 2011 to Consider the Bayer CropScience Final Investigation Report and Recommendations

Washington, DC, January 3, 2011 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced that it will hold a public meeting on January 20, 2011, in Institute, West Virginia, to present the final report and recommendations from its investigation of the August 28, 2008, chemical processing tank explosion at the Bayer CropScience facility in Institute that fatally injured two workers.

CSB Receives Two CINE Golden Eagle Awards; Safety Videos “No Place to Hang Out” and “Dangers of Hot Work” Cited for Excellence

Washington, DC, December 22, 2010 – CINE, an internationally recognized film and video organization, announced the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) was the recipient of two prestigious awards for CSB safety videos.

CSB to Hold Public Hearing Wednesday, December 15, as Part of the CSB Deepwater Horizon Investigation

CSB Deploys to Fatal Accident in New Cumberland West Virginia

Washington DC, December 9, 2010 – A four-person investigation team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the scene of a fatal accident at the AL Solutions, Inc. titanium and zirconium processing facility in New Cumberland, West Virginia.

CSB Announces Expert Panel Participants for December 15 Hearing on Regulation of Offshore Oil and Gas Safety Practices

Washington, DC, December 8, 2010 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced the panel participants for its daylong public hearing entitled “Regulatory Approaches to Offshore Oil and Gas Safety” which will be held on December 15, 2010 in Washington, DC. The hearing is part of the CSB’s ongoing investigation into the April 20, 2010, fire and explosion on the Deepwater Horizon that killed 11 workers.

CSB to Hold Hearing in Washington DC to Hear Expert Testimony on Regulation of Offshore Oil and Gas Safety Practices

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced that it will be holding a daylong public hearing entitled “Regulatory Approaches to Offshore Oil and Gas Safety” on Wednesday, December 15, 2010 in Washington DC. The meeting is part of the CSB’s ongoing investigation into the April 20, 2010, fire and explosion on the Deepwater Horizon that killed 11 workers. The hearing will bring together international regulators, union representatives and industry groups to discuss approaches to regulating the safety of offshore oil and gas exploration and production.

CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Applauds NFPA on Establishing a New Technical Committee to Develop a Comprehensive Standard for Gas Processing Safety

Dr. Rafael Moure-Eraso, Chairperson of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today applauded the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for its recent decision to establish a new technical committee to develop a comprehensive standard for gas processing safety, including the cleaning of fuel gas piping systems. The NFPA acted in response to an urgent recommendation issued by the CSB following a catastrophic natural gas explosion at Kleen Energy, a power plant under construction in Middletown, Connecticut on February 7, 2010. In that incident, workers were conducting a "gas blow," a procedure that forced natural gas at high volume and pressure through newly-installed piping to remove debris. The gas was vented to the atmosphere, where it accumulated and exploded, killing six contract workers and injuring many others.

CSB Receives Gold and Silver TIVA Peer Awards for Agency Safety Videos; Imperial Sugar Animation and Combustible Dust Video are Winners

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) received awards for two safety videos at the annual Television, Internet, and Video Association of DC (TIVA DC) dinner on Saturday, November 13. An animation depicting a massive sugar refinery explosion, which took 14 lives, won a gold award for best animation in its category. The animation appeared in a CSB safety video entitled Inferno: Dust Explosion at Imperial Sugar. Another CSB safety video, Combustible Dust: An Insidious Hazard was presented with the silver award for best educational/training video.

CSB Chairperson Meets with Colorado Governor Bill Ritter Jr. to Discuss Open Recommendations to the State of Colorado

U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso, Ph.D. today met with Colorado Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. to discuss CSB safety recommendations regarding power plants in the state.

On One-Year Anniversary of Fatal Oil Site Accident in Forrest County, Mississippi, CSB Launches Educational Outreach Initiative

Washington, DC, October 28, 2010 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced that educational materials concerning oil site hazards that threaten the lives of teenagers have been distributed to more than 150 Mississippi school superintendents. The CSB is calling on schools across the state to incorporate the video and lessons into school curricula.

Statement of CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso Applauding the International Code Council for Emergency Amendment to Prohibit Indoor Purging

Statement of CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso Applauding the International Code Council for Emergency Amendment to Prohibit Indoor Purging

CSB Commends State of West Virginia's Action on CSB Recommendation to Train and License Propane Technicians; Action Follows Tragic Explosion at Convenience Store

Washington DC, October 20, 2010 – CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso today commended the governor and legislature of West Virginia for their positive response to a CSB recommendation that propane technicians in the state be trained, certified, and licensed.

CSB Safety Message Commends Connecticut for Prohibiting Natural Gas Blows, Calls on States to take Similar Action

U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso calls for a ban on the cleaning out of debris from gas piping using pressurized natural gas, a practice that is referred to in the industry as a gas blow.

CSB Board Member Mark Griffon Calls on American Society of Mechanical Engineers to Adopt CSB Recommendation Prohibiting Natural Gas Blows at Power Plants

U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) Member Mark Griffon today called on the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) to adopt a CSB recommendation calling for natural gas blows to be prohibited during power plant construction.

CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Commends Connecticut Governor for Prohibiting Dangerous Practice of Natural Gas Blows at Power Plants

Washington, DC, September 21, 2010 – The CSB issues the following statement from Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso responding to an executive order issued today by Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell prohibiting natural gas blow procedures at power plants as a means of cleaning out piping in preparation for start up of the facilities.

CSB Announces Internal Reorganization; Board Appoints Dr. Daniel Horowitz to Newly Created Position of Managing Director

CSB Chairperson and CEO Rafael Moure-Eraso today announced a major realignment of the agency’s internal organization, including creation of a new position of managing director who will report to the chair while overseeing all aspects of CSB operations, including investigations, studies, recommendations, Congressional and public affairs, financial operations, human resources, information technology, and administration.

CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Congratulates Forrest County, Mississippi for Passing Ordinance Requiring Security Measures around Hazardous Oil and Gas Sites

"Yesterday, the Board of Supervisors of Forrest County, Mississippi, passed an ordinance requiring critical security measures, including fencing and signage, be placed around hazardous oil sites. I congratulate the Forrest County supervisors for taking this vital step in protecting human lives, particularly those of teenagers and young adults who like to hang out at these sites in rural areas.

CSB Contracts Independent Study on Reducing Inventory of Toxic Methyl Isocyanate (MIC) at West Virginia Chemical Site

Washington, DC, September 2, 2010 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) has commenced a National Academy of Sciences (NAS) study on the feasibility of reducing or eliminating the inventory of highly toxic methyl isocyanate stored at the Bayer CropScience pesticide manufacturing complex located in Institute, West Virginia, near Charleston.

CSB Conducting Assessment of Ammonia Release at Millard Refrigerated Services South of Mobile, Alabama

CSB Final Report on Xcel Energy Accident Finds Company and its Contractor Failed to Adequately Prepare for Hazardous Work Inside Confined Space of Hydroelectric Plant Tunnel; Xcel Had No Technically Qualified Responders on Duty

Denver, Colorado, August 25, 2010—The tragic accident that took the lives of five industrial painting contractors deep inside an Xcel Energy hydroelectric plant tunnel in Georgetown, Colorado, was the result of several vital safety failures, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) determined in a final investigation report issued today in Denver.

Letter from CSB Chairperson Moure-Eraso Admonishing Xcel Energy for Conduct During Fire Investigation

Letter from CSB Chairperson Moure-Eraso Admonishing Xcel Energy for Conduct During Fire Investigation

CSB Chairperson Calls for Effective Safeguards at Oil and Gas Sites Across Mississippi; Cites 2009 Tragedy in Which Two Teens Died

Jackson, MS, August 19, 2010 – CSB Chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso today called on Mississippi legislators and officials to increase safeguards at oil and gas sites across the state. Dr. Moure-Eraso spoke at a meeting of stakeholders convened by State Senator Billy Hudson to discuss the possible introduction of a bill requiring public safety measures at oil and gas sites. The initiative follows an October 31, 2009, explosion in Carnes, MS, where two teenage boys aged 16 and 18 were tragically killed when a gas condensate tank suddenly exploded.

Statement of CSB Board Member John Bresland Commending the Action by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to Prohibit Indoor Purging

I am pleased that the NFPA made our recommendation a high priority and took immediate steps to improve the National Fuel Gas Code. Last week, on August 5, the NFPA Standards Council gave final approval to an emergency code change, known as a Tentative Interim Amendment, that will prohibit indoor purging of industrial gas lines operating at greater than two pounds per square inch gauge (psig) or meeting certain pipe size criteria. According to the NFPA, the new requirements are designed to requ​

Statement of CSB Chairperson Dr. Rafael Moure-Eraso Urges OSHA to Adopt CSB Recommendation Prohibiting Flammable Gas Blows During Pipe Cleaning Operations

On June 28, 2010, at a public meeting in Portland, Connecticut, the Chemical Safety Board voted to issue 18 urgent recommendations to various recipients, including OSHA, aimed at halting the dangerous practice of releasing large quantities of flammable gas in the presence of workers and ignition sources during cleaning operations.

CSB to Investigate Accident that Killed Two Workers at Horsehead Holding Company

Washington, DC, August 3, 2010 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board announced today that it will be conducting a full investigation into the July 22, 2010, explosion and fire that killed two workers at the Horsehead Holding Company zinc recycling facility located in Monaca, PA.

CSB Issues Report on 2009 Explosion at Veolia ES Technical Solutions, L.L.C. Hazardous Waste Facility; Waste Industry Urged to Improve Safety Standards; Recommendations Issued to Ensure Safer Siting of Buildings

Washington DC, July 19, 2010 – A U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) case study released today on the 2009 explosion and fire at the Veolia ES Technical Solutions L.L.C. facility in West Carrollton, Ohio, calls on the industry to improve safety standards covering hazardous waste processing, handling, and storage facilities.

CSB Chairperson Saddened by Fatal Colorado Welding Accident; Renews Call for Hot Work Safety

Dr. Rafael Moure-Eraso, chairperson and CEO of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) said today he was saddened by news of the death of a Colorado welder yesterday while performing what is called “hot work” on a storage tank containing flammables at an environmental remediation company in Englewood, Colorado.

CSB Approves Urgent Recommendations to OSHA, NFPA, Others to Prevent Deadly Explosions and Fires during Pipe Cleaning and Purging Operations

UPDATED 10 p.m. June 28 - On a 4-1 vote, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board tonight approved urgent safety recommendations to OSHA, NFPA and others. The draft recommendations, which were approved without amendments at a public meeting in Portland, CT, aim to prevent deadly explosions and fires during pipe cleaning and purging operations.

CSB Approves Urgent Recommendations to OSHA, NFPA, Others to Prevent Deadly Explosions and Fires During Pipe Cleaning and Purging Operations

CSB Approves Urgent Recommendations to OSHA, NFPA, Others to Prevent Deadly Explosions and Fires During Pipe Cleaning and Purging Operations

Dr. Rafael Moure-Eraso Confirmed as New Chairman and Mark Griffon as Board Member

Dr. Rafael Moure-Eraso has been confirmed and appointed as the new chairman of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB), the agency announced today; Mr. Mark Griffon has been appointed as a new board member, filling the other vacancy on the Board.

CSB Considers Urgent Recommendations to OSHA, NFPA, Others to Prevent Deadly Explosions and Fires During Pipe Cleaning and Purging Operations

Middletown, Connecticut, June 28, 2010 – U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) board members are slated to vote tonight on a series of 18 urgent recommendations aimed at preventing fires and explosions caused when fuel gas is used to clean or purge gas pipes of debris, air, or other substances, typically during facility construction and maintenance.

Letter to Chairmen Henry A. Waxman and Bart Stupak

As requested, I have attached the U.S. Chemical Safety Board’s (CSB) scoring of the BP/Deepwater Horizon/Transocean incident that occurred on April 20, 2010.

CSB to Investigate Root Causes of BP Deepwater Horizon Blowout Accident: Announcement Made in Letter by Chairman John Bresland to U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce

CSB to Investigate Root Causes of BP Deepwater Horizon Blowout Accident: Announcement Made in Letter by Chairman John Bresland to Chairman Henry Waxman of House Energy and Commerce Committee and Chairman Bart Stupak of Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations

Statement from CSB Chairman John Bresland Regarding House Committee Request to Investigate BP Deepwater Horizon

I have received the letter from Chairmen Waxman and Stupak of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, requesting that the CSB investigate the BP Deepwater Horizon blowout.

CSB Releases New Hot Work Safety Video Emphasizing Effective Hazard Evaluations and Gas Monitoring Procedures around Storage Tanks

Washington, DC, June 7, 2010 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a 14-minute safety video warning of the hazards of welding and other hot work activities in and around storage tanks containing flammable materials.

CSB Announces June 28 Public Hearing in Connecticut on Kleen Energy Explosion

Pipe Cleaning Practices that Led to Kleen Energy Explosion Are Common Across Gas Energy Industry, Survey Data Show

Washington, DC, May 19, 2010 – The practice of using flammable natural gas to clean power plant piping, which led to the fatal explosion at Connecticut-based Kleen Energy on February 7, has been commonly used across the gas-fired power generating industry, CSB investigators said today.

CSB Receives Prestigious European Process Safety Award for Safety Videos

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) has received the prestigious European Process Safety Centre (EPSC) Award 2010 for the CSB Safety Video series, Centre officials announced today. The award is given to acknowledge “progress toward a less-hazardous Europe” and is made to an individual or team which “has considerably advanced the theory or practice of process safety.”

Board Member William Wark Statement on Recent Oil Site Fatalities

The CSB is deeply concerned about the recent surge of accidents at oil and gas production sites across the country. We take seriously any chemical accident that fatally injures members of the public. It is the CSB’s view that companies should take proper precautions to ensure that oil and gas production sites are secured properly, with fencing, gates and warning signs to prevent access by teenagers and young adults who are attracted to the sites as secluded places at which to socialize.

CSB Requests Public Comment on National Academy of Sciences Study on Use of Toxic Methyl Isocyanate (MIC), Inherently Safer Technology Alternatives

Washington, DC, April 26, 2010 — In a Federal Register notice published April 23, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced it is seeking public comment on the design of a Congressionally mandated study on the use of methyl isocyanate (MIC) in the manufacturing of certain pesticides, and the feasibility of implementing safer alternatives to protect workers and the public from a potential release.​

CSB Investigators Determine that Oklahoma Oil Site Where an Explosion Killed a Member of the Public April 14 was Unsecured, Unfenced, and Likely Lacked Explosion Warning Signs

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, April 23, 2009 — A fiery explosion that took the life of a 21-year-old member of the public in Weeletka, Oklahoma, on April 14 occurred at an unattended oil and gas production site that was unsecured and likely lacked fire or explosion warning signs, CSB investigators have determined following a four-day field assessment. Investigators arrived in Weleetka on Sunday evening and have been examining the site, conducting witness interviews, and gathering other information throughout the week

CSB Examining Fatal Oil Site Explosion in Weleetka, Oklahoma; Probe Follows Recent Release of Safety Video and Board Call for Greater Protections at Oil and Gas Sites

Washington, DC, April 21, 2009— The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced today it has sent investigators to a fatal explosion which occurred April 14, 2010, at an oil site in Weleetka, Oklahoma. The CSB team is headed by Investigations Supervisor Don Holmstrom who leads the CSB’s regional office Denver, Colorado. A 21-year-old member of the public died of burns sustained in the explosion and fire.

CSB Releases Video “No Place to Hang Out” Focusing on Deaths of Teenagers in Oil Site Explosions

Told through the eyes and voices of grieving and concerned parents, friends, and local officials, the newest CSB safety video, “No Place to Hang Out: The Danger of Oil Sites,” tells the story of the tragic deaths of 18-year-old Wade White and 16-year-old Devon Byrd, killed October 31, 2009, when an oil tank, located in a clearing in the woods near the home of one of the boys in the rural town of Carnes, suddenly exploded.

CSB Investigative Team Deploying to Fatal Tesoro Refinery Accident in Anacortes, Washington

Washington DC, April 2, 2010 - A four-member investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the scene of an explosion and fire overnight in a naphtha hydrotreater unit at the Tesoro refinery in Anacortes, Washington.

Statement from CSB Chairman John Bresland on 5th Anniversary of Fatal BP Texas City 2005 Explosion

Five years ago today, at about 1:20 p.m., a series of explosions rocked the BP Texas City refinery during the restart of a hydrocarbon isomerization unit. Fifteen workers were killed and 170 others were injured. Many of the victims were working in or around work trailers located near an atmospheric vent stack. The explosions occurred when a distillation tower flooded with hydrocarbons and was over- pressurized, causing a geyser-like release from the vent stack. The hydrocarbons found an ignition source and exploded.

Statement of CSB Chairman John Bresland Concerning the President's Announcement of New Nominees to the Chemical Safety Board (CSB)

After two years as chairman and chief executive officer of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board, I plan to step down from that position effective upon the appointment and commissioning of a new chairman by President Obama. I will continue to serve as a board member for the duration of my five-year term, which will end in March 2013.

Seven Key Lessons to Prevent Worker Deaths During Hot Work In and Around Tanks

The CSB has identified over 60 fatalities since 1990 due to explosions and fires from hot work activities on tanks. Hot work is defined as “[w]ork involving burning, welding, or a similar operation that is capable of initiating fires or explosions.”1 Hot work also includes other activities with the potential to create a source of ignition such as cutting, brazing, grinding, and soldering. Workers are potentially at risk not only in the oil and gas industry, where flammables are handled regularly, but also in many other sectors within general industry, such as food production, paper, and wastewater treatment.

Following Deadly Explosion at PCA Corrugated Mill in Wisconsin, CSB Issues Safety Bulletin on Hazards of Welding and Other Hot Work

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today issued a safety bulletin warning of the hazards of conducting hot work in a variety of industries and identifying seven key lessons aimed at preventing worker deaths during hot work in and around storage tanks containing flammable materials.

Statement of CSB Investigations Supervisor Don Holmstrom Updating the Public on the CSB’s Investigation of the Catastrophic Accident at Kleen Energy, Middletown, Connecticut

The safety issues raised by this accident are not limited to Connecticut. These issues are larger than any particular company, facility, or individual. The U.S. has embarked an ambitious construction effort for new natural gas power plants. Thousands and thousands of workers across the country will be involved in constructing these plants. The safety of these workers and the nation’s energy independence are at stake as these gas-fired plants are built over the next 20 years.

CSB Deploying Investigation Team to Fatal Explosion at Kleen Energy Power Plant in Middletown, Connecticut

Washington, DC, February 7, 2010 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying a seven-person team to the site of a fatal explosion at the Kleen Energy Plant in Middletown, Connecticut. The team is expected on site midday on Monday, February 8. According to media reports, the explosion at approximately 11:30 a.m. resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries and caused off-site damage.

CSB Board Members Vote to Approve Urgent Gas Code Recommendations Following Deadly ConAgra Explosion at Public Meeting in Raleigh

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) approved two urgent recommendations that national fuel gas codes be changed to improve safety when gas pipes are being purged (cleared of air) during maintenance or installation of new piping. The recommendations grow out of the CSB’s ongoing federal investigation into the June 9, 2009, natural gas explosion at the ConAgra Slim Jim production facility in Garner, North Carolina, which caused four deaths, three critical life-threatening burn injuries, and other​

CSB Budget Justification Fiscal Year 2011

For fiscal year (FY) 2011, the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) requests a budget of $12.71 million, an increase of $2.16 million above the FY 2010 operating budget of $10.55 million1 and $1.91 million above the president’s request. 2

Board Votes to Initiate Investigation on Accidents at DuPont Chemical Facility in Belle, West Virginia

Washington, DC, January 25, 2010 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today voted to initiate an investigation of recent accidents at the DuPont chemical complex in Belle, West Virginia, following a release of highly toxic phosgene on Saturday that fatally injured a veteran operator.

CSB to Investigate Laboratory Explosion at Texas Tech University Chemistry Department

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) will investigate the causes of a January 7 explosion that severely injured a graduate student at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. The CSB planned to collect information on several laboratory accidents for a future study on the topic.

CSB to Hold Feb. 4 Public Meeting in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Fatal 2009 Gas Explosion at the ConAgra Slim Jim Plant

Washington, DC, January 14, 2010 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced that it will be holding a public meeting on Thursday, February 4, 2010, in Raleigh, North Carolina, to present preliminary findings from its investigation of the June 9, 2009, natural gas explosion and ammonia release at the ConAgra Food Slim Jim facility in Garner, North Carolina, that killed four workers and injured seventy others.

CSB Releases Board Voting Information and Board Orders on CSB.gov

Washington, DC, January 8, 2010 – As part of an ongoing effort to increase transparency and promote public understanding of the agency’s work, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today began publishing voting records of the Board and copies of Board orders that govern agency operations.

CSB Issues Urgent Recommendations to CITGO; Finds Inadequate Hydrogen Fluoride Water Mitigation System during Corpus Christi Refinery Fire Last July

Houston, Texas, December 9, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today issued urgent safety recommendations calling on CITGO to immediately improve its emergency water mitigation system in the event of another release of potentially deadly hydrogen fluoride (HF) vapor, as occurred following an explosion and fire July 19, 2009, at CITGO’s Corpus Christi refinery. The Board also called on CITGO to perform third-party audits to ensure the safety of its hydrogen fluoride units at its Corpus Christi, Texas, and Lemont, Illinois, refineries.

CSB Investigative Team to Examine Fatal Explosion at NDK America Inc. near Rockford, Illinois

Washington, DC, December 8, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board is deploying an investigation team to the site of an explosion that occurred Monday afternoon at the NDK America Inc. plant, a manufacturer of quartz crystals in Belvidere, Illinois, approximately 60 miles northwest of Chicago.

Statements of CSB Chairman John Bresland and CSB Investigations Supervisor Don Holmstrom Updating the Public on the Investigation of the Nov. 4 Explosion at the Silver Eagle Refinery in Woods Cross, Utah - November 17, 2009

Statements of CSB Chairman John Bresland and CSB Investigations Supervisor Don Holmstrom Updating the Public on the Investigation of the Nov. 4 Explosion at the Silver Eagle Refinery in Woods Cross, Utah​

CSB Conducting Full Investigation of Massive Tank Fire at Caribbean Petroleum Refining; Investigative Team Plans to Thoroughly Examine Facility Safety Practices

Bayamon, PR, November 17, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced that it will be conducting a full investigation of the October 23, 2009 explosion and fire at Caribbean Petroleum Refining. CSB investigators continue to examine the events and circumstances surrounding the catastrophic tank explosion and fire.

Statement of U.S. Chemical Safety Board Chairman John Bresland - Friday November 13, 2009

The CSB investigative team has been continuing its investigation of the hydrogen gas explosion at the Silver Eagle refinery in Woods Cross on November 4. Our preliminary findings indicate that the explosion occurred when a 10-inch pipe failed catastrophically. Although the failure mechanism has yet to be determined, the pipe showed evidence of significant thinning which had not been detected by the refinery’s mechanical integrity program.

Safety Message: Without Safeguards, Pressure Vessels Can Be Deadly

Improperly installed or modified pressure vessels have led to a number of serious chemical accidents. Eleven states still don't require adherence to the ASME pressure vessel code. All states and localities should adopt this code and related boiler standards; lives will be saved as a result. That's the CSB chairman's safety message for Monday, November 9, 2009.

CSB Investigative Team Deploying to Silver Eagle Refinery Explosion and Fire near Salt Lake City

Washington DC, November 4, 2009 - A six-member team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the scene of today’s explosion and fire at the Silver Eagle Refinery in Woods Cross, Utah.

The following statement from CSB Chairman John Bresland concerns OSHA’s announcement today of regulatory action against BP Products North America and its Texas City refinery

Today’s announcement by OSHA alleges extensive and serious safety violations by the BP refinery in Texas City, Texas. The citations stem from OSHA’s continuing inspection work following the March 23, 2005, accident that killed 15 workers and injured 180 others. While these OSHA citations are not yet final, they are of great concern to me because they strongly suggest that BP has yet to achieve an effective safety culture with regard to process safety management.

CSB to Examine Fire at Tesoro Refinery in Salt Lake City

Washington, DC, October 22, 2009 - A three-person investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) will be examining a fire that occurred Wednesday evening at the Tesoro refinery in Salt Lake City, Utah, following a power outage earlier in the day.

CSB Investigative Team Deploying to Caribbean Petroleum Corporation Tank Explosion in Puerto Rico

Washington, DC, October 23, 2009 – A six-person team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the site of a major explosion and fire at a petroleum storage facility near San Juan, Puerto Rico, that occurred early Friday. Reports indicate that a number of large petroleum storage tanks are on fire at the Caribbean Petroleum Corporation facility in Bayamon.

CSB Releases New Safety Video, “Inferno: Dust Explosion at Imperial Sugar”

Washington, DC, October 6, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new nine-minute safety video on the combustible dust explosion at the Imperial Sugar refinery in Port Wentworth, Georgia, which claimed the lives of 14 workers, injured 36, and caused extensive property damage on February 7, 2008.

CSB Issues Final Report on Oleum Release from INDSPEC Chemical Corp. that Forced Thousands to Evacuate in October 2008; Report Cites Use of Pump Power Supply that Lacked Safeguards

Washington, DC, October 5, 2009 – The Chemical Safety Board (CSB) released a final report today on the uncontrolled oleum release from INDSPEC Chemical Corporation in Petrolia, Pennsylvania, which forced the evacuation of three surrounding towns in October 2008. In the report the CSB encouraged companies that handle hazardous chemicals to follow proper management-of-change procedures, monitor deviations from written operating procedures, and implement appropriate safeguards to mitigate human errors.

CSB Releases Safety Bulletin on the Dangers of Purging Gas Piping into Buildings, Urges Outdoor Venting of Gases

Washington, DC, October 2, 2009 – In a new safety bulletin based on preliminary findings from the ConAgra Foods natural gas explosion in Garner, North Carolina, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) urged companies, gas installers, and contractors to follow safe practices during gas purging operations, including venting purged gases outdoors whenever practicable.

Final CSB Report on Imperial Sugar Disaster Concludes Inadequate Equipment Design, Maintenance, and Housekeeping Led to Massive Sugar Dust Explosions

In a final draft report released today, CSB investigators said the February 7, 2008, explosion at the Imperial Sugar refinery in Port Wentworth, Georgia, resulted from ongoing releases of sugar from inadequately designed and maintained dust collection equipment, conveyors, and sugar handling equipment. Inadequate housekeeping practices allowed highly combustible sugar dust and granulated sugar to build up throughout the refinery’s packing buildings, CSB investigators concluded.

CSB Releases New Safety Video, “Runaway: Explosion at T2 Laboratories” Depicting Reactive Chemical Accident that Killed Four and Injured 32

Washington, DC, September 22, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new nine-minute computer animated safety video depicting a tragic reactive chemical accident that devastated T2 Laboratories in Jacksonville, Florida.

CSB Finds T2 Laboratories Explosion Caused by Failure of Cooling System Resulting in Runaway Chemical Reaction; Report Notes Company Did Not Recognize Hazards of Chemical Process

Jacksonville, Florida, September 15, 2009 – The massive December 2007 explosion and fire at T2 Laboratories in Jacksonville was caused by a runaway chemical reaction that likely resulted from an inadequate reactor cooling system, investigators from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) said in a final draft report released today. The Board is to vote on the report findings and recommendations at a public meeting in Jacksonville this evening. Concluding that T2 did not recognize all of the potential hazards of the process for making a gasoline additive, the report calls for improving the education of chemical engineering students on reactive chemical hazards. The explosion and fire on December 19, 2007, killed four T2 employees and injured four others. In addition, 28 people working at nearby businesses were injured when building walls and windows blew in. The blast sent debris up to a mile away and damaged buildings within a quarter-mile of the facility.

CSB to Hold Public Meeting in Savannah, Georgia, September 24; Board will Consider Final Investigation Report on Fatal Dust Explosion at Imperial Sugar Refinery

Washington, DC, September 15, 2009 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced that it will convene a public meeting on Thursday September 24, 2009, in Savannah, Georgia, to review the final CSB investigation report on the causes of the February 2008 dust explosions and fire at the Imperial Sugar refinery in Port Wentworth, Georgia. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Hilton Savannah Desoto, located at 15 East Liberty Street. The meeting is free and open to the public. Members of the public, those affected by the accident, and emergency responders are encouraged to attend and to provide comments prior to the Board’s consideration of the final report. The meeting is expected to conclude at approximately 9:00 p.m.

CSB to Hold Public Meeting in Jacksonville, Florida, September 15; Board to Consider Final Investigation Report on Fatal Reactive Chemical Accident at T2 Laboratories

Washington, DC, August 31, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced today that it will convene a public meeting on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, in Jacksonville, Florida, at which CSB investigators will present their final report on the causes of the fatal December 2007 explosion at T2 Laboratories Inc., a local chemical manufacturer.

Statement from CSB Chairman John Bresland on Bayer CropScience Announcement Concerning Methyl Isocyanate

Washington, DC, August 26, 2009 - The CSB is continuing to investigate the serious explosion that occurred one year ago at the Bayer CropScience (Bayer) pesticide manufacturing site in Institute, West Virginia. We have completed the collection of most of the evidence on the causes of the explosion itself. Consistent with a May 2009 request from Congress, our investigation is currently examining options for Bayer to reduce or eliminate the use and storage of highly toxic methyl isocyanate (MIC) at the Institute site.

CSB Receives Award for Safety Video on West Virginia Propane Explosion that Killed Four; Production Called “Extremely Effective”

Washington, DC, August 14, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) received a key communication award from a major online learning and teaching organization for a CSB Safety Video on the West Virginia propane explosion that killed four people when a convenience store blew up in January 2007.

CSB Investigative Team to Examine Hydrogen Fluoride Release from ExxonMobil Refinery in Illinois

Washington DC, August 7, 2009 – A four-member investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the site of a release of propane and hydrogen fluoride at the ExxonMobil refinery in Joliet, Illinois. At approximately 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, there was a sudden release of propane and hydrogen fluoride (HF) from the vicinity of a pump in the refinery’s alkylation unit, which uses HF as a catalyst. The leak did not ignite, but one operator was transported to the hospital suffering from what were described as serious, HF-related chemical burns; he was initially reported in critical condition. A second operator was examined at the hospital and released. The unit’s water deluge system, which is designed to contain airborne HF releases, was activated and the alkylation unit was shut down. Refinery personnel were instructed to shelter in place.

CSB Releases New Safety Video, “Combustible Dust: An Insidious Hazard” Features Three New Animations of Major Dust Accidents, Shows Need for Comprehensive Standard and Improved Safety Practices

Washington, DC, July 28, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new safety video depicting how accumulations of combustible dust at worksites can provide the fuel for devastating explosions that kill and maim workers, shut down plants, and harm local economies.

CSB Deploys to Fire at CITGO Refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas

Washington DC, July 20, 2009 – A four-member investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is en route to the site of a fire that began Sunday morning in the hydrogen fluoride (HF) alkylation unit at the CITGO refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas.

CSB Deploys to Fire at CITGO Refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas

A four-member investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is en route to the site of a fire that began Sunday morning in the hydrogen fluoride (HF) alkylation unit at the CITGO refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas. One worker was airlifted to a burn center in San Antonio as a result of the accident at the 163,000 barrel per day refinery. The alkylation unit was reported to be shut down.​

CSB Investigative Team to Examine Fatal Ammonia Release near Columbia, South Carolina

Washington, DC, July 15, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board is deploying an investigation team to the site of an anhydrous ammonia release that occurred earlier today at Tanner Industries, located south of Swansea, South Carolina, the agency announced.

Statement of CSB Chairman John Bresland and CSB Investigation Supervisor Don Holmstrom on ConAgra Explosion

CSB Releases Safety Video on Need for Chemical Emergency Preparedness, Based on Findings from a Decade of CSB Accident Investigations

Washington, DC, - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new safety video showing the need for emergency response agencies, companies, and communities to work closely together to prepare for the k

CSB Deploys Investigation Team to Site of Explosion at ConAgra Foods Plant in Garner, North Carolina

Washington, DC, June 9, 2009— The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today sent an investigation team to the site of an explosion, fire and roof collapse at the ConAgra Foods plant in Garner, North Carolina.

CSB Issues Final Report on Allied Terminals Catastrophic Fertilizer Tank Collapse; Board Calls for Regulation of Similar Tanks Located on the Elizabeth River

Chesapeake, Virginia, May 27, 2009 – In a final report issued today into the November 2008 fertilizer tank collapse at Allied Terminals in Chesapeake, VA, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) recommended that the Commonwealth of Virginia regulate or authorize local jurisdictions to regulate the design, construction, maintenance and inspection of large fertilizer storage tanks located on the Elizabeth River.

CSB Launches Redesigned Agency Website and Releases New Video

Washington, DC, May 26, 2009 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today unveiled a redesigned website, www.csb.gov that includes imbedded flash videos, a photo gallery, and a new accident news feed. ​

In Preliminary Findings, CSB Investigators Report Bayer CropScience Explosion Was Caused by Runaway Chemical Reaction; Cite Significant Lapses in Process Safety, Outdated Operating Procedures

Institute, West Virginia, April 23, 2009 - A large explosion and fire that took the lives of two workers at the Bayer CropScience (Bayer) plant last August was caused by a thermal runaway reaction during the production of an insecticide. The event likely resulted from significant lapses in chemical process safety management at the plant, U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) investigators said today in preliminary findings released at a news conference here.

In Preliminary Findings, CSB Investigators Report Bayer CropScience Explosion Was Caused by Runaway Chemical Reaction; Cite Significant Lapses in Process Safety, Outdated Operating Procedures

Institute, West Virginia, April 23, 2009 - A large explosion and fire that took the lives of two workers at the Bayer CropScience (Bayer) plant last August was caused by a thermal runaway reaction during the production of an insecticide. The event likely resulted from significant lapses in chemical process safety management at the plant, U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) investigators said today in preliminary findings released at a news conference here.

In House Testimony, CSB Chairman John Bresland Cites Significant Lapses in Process Safety in August 2008 Bayer CropScience Explosion

Washington, DC, April 21, 2009 - The Bayer CropScience chemical facility explosion and fire that fatally injured two plant operators and potentially threatened plant neighbors likely resulted from a series of process safety management deficiencies that led to a runaway chemical reaction, U.S. Chemical Safety Board Chairman John Bresland told a House committee investigating the matter today.

CSB Announces Panel Participants for April 23 Public Meeting on 2008 Bayer CropScience Accident in Institute, West Virginia

Washington, DC, April 17, 2009 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced today the panel of outside witnesses who will be speaking at the April 23, 2009, public meeting in Institute, West Virginia. At the meeting the Board will be releasing preliminary findings into its investigation of the August 28, 2008, chemical processing tank explosion at Bayer CropScience which fatally injured two workers.

CSB Chairman John Bresland Encourages Florida Governor to Support Workplace Safety Rules for State's Public Employees

Washington, D.C. March 26, 2009 - In a letter released today by the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB), Chairman John Bresland urged Florida Governor Charlie Crist to support worker-safety legislation to protect state, county, and municipal employees in Florida.

CSB to Hold Public Meeting in Institute, West Virginia on April 23; Investigators will Present Preliminary Findings and Board will Hear Public Comments on the Fatal Explosion at Bayer CropScience

Washington, DC, March 13, 2009- The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced that it will be holding a public meeting on April 23, 2009, in Institute, West Virginia, to present preliminary findings from its investigation of the August 28, 2008, chemical processing tank explosion at Bayer CropScience which fatally injured two workers.

Chairman Bresland's New YouTube Safety Message Urges More Government Action, Increased Industry Vigilance to Prevent Catastrophic Dust Explosions

Washington, DC, February 4, 2009 - Marking the first anniversary of the Imperial Sugar explosion that killed 14 workers in February 2008, CSB Chairman John Bresland released a new video safety message today asking federal regulators and businesses to increase efforts to prevent combustible dust fires and explosions.

Statement By Supervisory Investigator Donald Holmstrom Updated the Media on the CSB's Investigation into the January 12, 2009, Fire and Explosion at the Silver Eagle Refinery in Woods Cross, Utah

Since arriving in Utah the investigation team has conducted over 40 interviews, gathered process samples, collected hundreds of pages of refinery records and extensively examined the accident scene. To date, our investigation has found that on the evening of January 12, 2009 at approximately 5:20 pm a large vapor cloud was released from an atmospheric storage tank, known as tank 105, which contained an estimated 440,000 gallons of light naphtha.

CSB Investigative Team En Route to Utah Refinery Explosion

Washington DC, January 13, 2009 - A four-member team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the scene of an explosion and fire at the Silver Eagle Refinery in Woods Cross, Utah. ​

In a New Video Safety Message, CSB Chairman Bresland Emphasizes Effective Winterization Programs to Prevent Process Accidents

In a new video safety message released today on YouTube, CSB Chairman John Bresland urged companies to ensure they have effective winterization programs to prevent major chemical and refinery process accidents that could result in deaths or substantial property damage.

In First Video Safety Message, CSB Chairman John Bresland Calls for Industry to Remain Focused on Process Safety, Accident Prevention During Recession

In his first video safety message, CSB Chairman John Bresland today said that chemical companies and refineries need to continue to invest in process safety and preventive maintenance, even as the economic downturn cuts into sales and profits.

CSB to Conduct Full Investigation of Causes of Catastrophic Fertilizer Tank Collapse at Allied Terminals in Chesapeake, Virginia; Issues Urgent Safety Recommendations Citing Hazard to Public from Welding Defects on Several Remaining Tanks

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today issued urgent safety recommendations following last month’s collapse of a two-million-gallon liquid fertilizer storage tank at the Allied Terminals distribution facility in Chesapeake, VA, urging the company to take immediate steps to safeguard three other nearby fertilizer storage tanks from possible failure.

CSB Investigators to Examine Scene of Fatal Ohio Oilfield Explosion

A two-person investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is en route to the site of yesterday's fatal explosion at a rural Ohio oilfield, approximately 60 miles northwest of Columbus. The team is expected to arrive at the site in La Rue, Ohio, on Tuesday.

New CSB Safety Video, "Half an Hour to Tragedy," Highlights Training Needs for Propane Emergencies

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new 23-minute safety video, "Half an Hour to Tragedy," based on the deadly propane gas explosion at the Little General convenience store in Ghent, West Virginia, in January 2007.

CSB Investigation of the 2007 Little General Store Propane Explosion Emphasizes Need for Immediate Evacuation, Recommends Enhanced Training of Emergency Responders and Propane Technicians, Guidance for 911 Operators

Beckley, West Virginia, September 25, 2008 - In a draft final report released today, investigators from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) conclude that inadequate propane technician and emergency responder training and unsafe propane tank placement were the primary causes of a fatal accident in January 2007 at the Little General convenience store in Ghent, West Virginia

CSB Finds Static Spark Set Off Fire and Explosions at Barton Solvents Des Moines Facility, Investigation Finds Equipment Not Intended for Flammable Service or Properly Bonded and Grounded

A fire and series of explosions at the Barton Solvents Des Moines, Iowa, chemical distribution facility on October 29, 2007, was caused by a static electrical spark resulting from inadequate electrical bonding and grounding during the filling of a portable steel tank, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) determined in a final report today.

CSB to Hold Public Meeting in Beckley, West Virginia, September 25; Board will Consider Final Investigation Report on Fatal Propane Explosion at Little General Convenience Store

Washington, DC, September 10, 2008 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced that it will convene a public meeting on Thursday September 25, 2008, in Beckley, West Virginia, to review the final CSB investigation report on the causes of the January 2007 propane explosion at the Little General Store in Ghent.

CSB Deploys to Fatal Accident at Bayer CropScience in West Virginia

A five-member investigation team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the scene of a fatal explosion and fire at the Bayer CropScience plant located in Kanawha County, West Virginia.

Board to Investigate Tank Explosion at Wisconsin Cardboard Manufacturer that Killed Three Workers

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced today that it will conduct a full investigation of the storage tank explosion that killed three workers and injured a fourth at the Packaging Corporation of America corrugated cardboard mill in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, on July 29.

CSB Chairman John Bresland Calls on OSHA to Adopt CSB Recommendation on Comprehensive Combustible Dust Standard, Says Imperial Sugar Explosion Shows "Urgency for Action Is Greater than Ever"

At a Senate hearing today, John Bresland, chairman and CEO of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB), called on OSHA to act on a November 2006 CSB recommendation to adopt a comprehensive standard regulating combustible dust in the workplace.

CSB Releases New Safety Video on Fatal 2006 Oilfield Explosion in Mississippi, Emphasizes Safe Practices for Hot Work

Washington, DC, July 17, 2008 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new safety video detailing an explosion that led to the deaths of three contractors at the Partridge-Raleigh oilfield in rural Raleigh, Mississippi, in June 2006.

CSB Determines Massive Propane Fire at Valero Refinery in Sunray, Texas, Resulted from Water Freezing and Cracking Idle Section of Process Piping; New Safety Video Released

A massive fire that injured four workers and caused the total shutdown and evacuation of the Valero McKee Refinery in Sunray, Texas, in February 2007 likely occurred after water leaked through a valve, froze, and cracked an out-of-service section of piping, causing a release of high-pressure liquid propane, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) said in a final investigation report issued today.

CSB to Investigate Fatal Explosion and Fire at Universal Form Clamp Co. in Bellwood, Illinois

Chicago, Illinois, June 28, 2006 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced it will pursue an investigation of the fatal explosion and fire at Universal Form Clamp Company in Bellwood, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. Shortly after 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 14, 2006, an explosion and fire occurred in a mixing room at the facility, causing one fatality and five injuries.

CSB Issues Final Report on Barton Solvents Explosion, Calls on OSHA and Trade Associations to Improve Material Safety Data Sheets for Nonconductive Flammable Liquids; Safety Video with Animation Released

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a case study and safety video on the July 2007 explosion and fire at the Barton Solvents distribution facility in Valley Center, Kansas. The CSB found the most likely cause of the explosion -- involving what is known as a nonconductive flammable liquid -- was a static spark resulting from a loosely-linked level-measuring float within the tank. The spark ignited the air-vapor mixture inside the tank as it was being filled.

CSB Investigating Causes of Fatal Rupture of Heat Exchanger at Goodyear Synthetic Rubber Facility in Houston

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced today that it is proceeding with an investigation of the causes of a recent accident at the Goodyear rubber manufacturing facility in southeast Houston, in which one employee was killed and approximately seven others were injured, including several contract workers who were exposed to hazardous anhydrous ammonia.

CSB Investigation into Massive 2006 CAI Explosion in Danvers, Massachusetts, Concludes Lack of Company Safeguards Allowed Solvent Vapor to Accumulate When Ink-Mixing Tank Was Left Heating Overnight

UPDATED 10 p.m. May 13, 2008 - At a public meeting in Danvers tonight, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board voted to approve the draft investigative report and safety recommendations. The report will be posted on CSB.gov in the next several days

CSB to Hold June 22, 2005, Public Hearing on Combustible Dust Hazards in Washington, DC

Washington, DC, May 5, 2005 - The CSB today announced it is convening a public hearing related to its investigation of combustible dust hazards at industrial facilities. The hearing will begin at 8:30 a.m. on June 22, 2005, in the Horizon Ballroom of the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC.

CSB to Hold May 13 Public Meeting in Danvers, Massachusetts, to Consider CAI/Arnel Explosion Final Investigation Report

Washington, DC, April 30, 2008 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced that it will convene a public meeting on Tuesday, May 13, 2008, in Danvers, Massachusetts, to review the final CSB investigation report on the causes of the November 2006 explosion at the CAI/Arnel ink and paint manufacturing plant.

CSB Issues New Safety Video on Hazardous Waste Facility Fire in Apex, NC

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released its latest safety video to accompany the CSB's final report on the October 2006 hazardous waste fire and community evacuation in Apex, North Carolina.

Final CSB Report on EQ Hazardous Waste Fire and Community Evacuation in Apex Calls for New Fire Protection Standards, Improved Chemical Information for Emergency Planners

In a case study report released today on the October 2006 hazardous waste fire at the Environmental Quality Company (EQ), the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) called for a new national fire code for hazardous waste facilities and for improving the information provided to community emergency planners about the chemicals those facilities store and handle.

Testimony of CSB Board Member William Wright before House Education and Labor Committee Hearing on Combustible Dust Hazards

The following statement is testimony from CSB board member and interim executive William E. Wright, presented on March 12, 2008, before the U.S. House of Representatives Education and Labor Committee in support of a comprehensive standard for combustible dust, as recommended by the CSB's 2006 Combustible Dust Hazard Study

Statement of CSB Investigations Manager Stephen Selk, P.E., Updating the Public on the Investigation of the Imperial Sugar Company Explosion and Fire, Savannah, Georgia

Statement of CSB Investigations Manager Stephen Selk, P.E., Updating the Public on the Investigation of the Imperial Sugar Company Explosion and Fire, Savannah, Georgia

Investigative Team from U.S. Chemical Safety Board Deploys to Explosion at Georgia Sugar Refinery

Washington, DC, February 8, 2008 - A six-member investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the site of last night's explosion at the Imperial Sugar refinery in Port Wentworth, Georgia, northwest of Savannah, near the South Carolina state line.

Statements of CSB Board Member William Wark and CSB Lead Investigator Don Holmstrom Updating the Public on the Fatal Accident at the BP Texas City Refinery on January 14, 2008

Statements of CSB Board Member William Wark and CSB Lead Investigator Don Holmstrom Updating the Public on the Fatal Accident at the BP Texas City Refinery on January 14, 2008.

Board Requests Budget of $10,600,000 for Fiscal Year 2009 - Increases to Support More Investigators, Safety Videos

Washington, DC, February 5, 2008 - The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced it is requesting an annual budget of $10,600,000 for fiscal year 2009, including funds for three new accident investigators and for the continuation of the CSB's widely used safety video program.

One Year After Deadly Explosion at WV Convenience Store CSB Completes Testing of Key Valve - Agency Continues Its Examination of Safety Practices and Emergency Response

On the first anniversary of a fatal propane explosion at a West Virginia convenience store, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today announced that testing has been completed on a key propane valve and outlined other issues that will be examined in the final investigation report.

CSB Concludes Field Phase of T2 Blast Investigation in Jacksonville, FL - Higher Number of Offsite Injuries Found

Investigators from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today concluded the initial field investigation of the fatal accident at T2 Laboratories Inc. Among investigators' findings thus far is that that the number of people injured was more than double what was known immediately after the accident.

CSB Investigative Team Deploys to BP Texas City Refinery, Site of Fatal Accident This Week

An investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is deploying to the BP refinery in Texas City, Texas, where an employee was killed in a process-related accident in an ultracracker unit on Monday.