Search

Beirut Explosion Strikes Similarities to 2013 West, TX Incident, Says CSB

Posted on 8/11/2020 by Lauren Scott

Last week, the Chairman of the US Chemical Safety and Hazardous Investigation Board (CSB) released a statement reflecting that the massive chemical explosion in Beirut, Lebanon on August 4 may have similar characteristics to the West Fertilizer Plant Explosion of 2013.

Although the explosion is still under investigation, news sources report that the incident in Lebanon’s capitol city may have been caused by prolonged storage of ammonium nitrate without the proper safety measures. This industrial chemical is commonly used as a fertilizer and is the main component of many types of mining explosives.

2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate were allegedly stored in a shipping container at Beirut’s cargo port for over six years when it erupted in smoke and flame last week, leaving at least 154 dead and thousands more injured.

 

Video Credit: CBC News: The National
 

CSB’s Call to Action

CSB Chairman Katherine Lemos points to several similarities between this incident and the equally devastating West Fertilizer Plant Explosion. On April 17, 2013, a fire and explosion in West, Texas killed 15 people, injured more than 260 others, and caused widespread community damage. After a thorough investigation, CSB determined the incident was caused by inadequate storage and handling of ammonium nitrate.

Since 2013, Federal agencies have made changes to the way companies can handle, store, and ship the potentially hazardous chemical. These regulatory changes include increased inspections by OSHA and new guidance on emergency planning issued from EPA.

In her statement, the chairman says incidents such as those in West, Texas and Beirut are preventable and argues for even more regulatory changes to keep employees, cargo, and our communities safe.

Read the full statement here.

Tags: Beirut, Beirut explosion, chemical accident, chemical explosion, CSB, EPA, hazardous materials, hazmat, hazmat news, Lebanon, osha, West Texas explosion

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Lion's information is very thorough and accurate. Presenter was very good.

Melissa Little

Regulatory Manager

I have attended other training providers, but Lion is best. Lion is king of the hazmat jungle!!!

Henry Watkins

Hazardous Waste Technician

The instructor was very patient and engaging - willing to answer and help explain subject matter.

Misty Filipp

Material Control Superintendent

I like Lion's workshops the best because they really dig into the information you need to have when you leave the workshop.

Tom Bush, Jr.

EHS Manager

The instructor clearly enjoys his job and transmits that enthusiasm. He made a dry subject very interesting and fun.

Teresa Arellanes

EHS Manager

Lion is my preferred trainer for hazmat and DOT.

Jim Jani

Environmental Coordinator

As always, Lion never disappoints

Paul Resley

Environmental Coordinator

The instructor was very engaging and helped less experienced people understand the concepts.

Steve Gall

Safety Leader

The instructor was excellent. They knew all of the material without having to read from a notepad or computer.

Gary Hartzell

Warehouse Supervisor

I tried other environmental training providers, but they were all sub-standard compared to Lion. I will not stray from Lion again!

Sara Sills

Environmental Specialist

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

A guide to developing standard operating procedures, or SOPs, that help you select, manage, and audit your hazmat agents and contractors.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.