OSHA Accident Investigation · Summary #221429616
W.R. MEADOWS, INC.
HAMPSHIRE, IL·
Event description
One employee is killed, one is injured during explosion
Investigation abstract
At 10:45 a.m. on January 21, 2022, in Building Q, OTC Room, two employees, which location each employee was working at, when the explosion occurred. Employee #1 was found in a harness and dead upon emergency services arrival. Employee #2 was on the ground walking disoriented when emergency services arrived, and life-saving efforts were conducted. Employee #2 was taken for treatment of chemical and flash burns to Saint Anthony's in Rockford, Illinois. Employee #2 was in stable but critical condition. Employee #1 and Employee #2, were cleaning the top of a mixing tank containing product CS30925, using a broom and dust pan to remove powder/resin accumulation from the top of the tank, when an explosion occurred. Employee #1 and Employee #2 were cleaning resin powder from the top of the mixing tank, containing a highly flammable liquid (possibly acetone-product CS30925), using a broom and dust pan. However, a shop vacuum was found on the catwalk, by the Hazardous Materials Team, and it was believed that it caused an energized electrical event, igniting the dust and causing an explosion and fire. It is unsure in
Victim
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#1 Fatality Age 55 M
- Event type
- 14
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