OSHA Inspection: BEDOUKIAN RESEARCH, INC

Issued

Oct 23, 1995

Abate by

Nov 25, 1995

Penalty

Initial $2,500 · Current $1,500 Reduced

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970:
The employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment
which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely
to cause death or serious physical harm to employees in that
employees were exposed to severe burns and trauma from the hazards
of chemical fires and explosions.
Reactor Room:  On or about 9/14/95, an employee was pouring Lithium
Aluminum Hydride (LAH) from a plastic bag through a four inch
opening into a fifty gallon reactor.  An expulsion of gas and/or
vapor caused the bag to inflate, startling the employee.  LAH was
spilled down the side of the reactor and onto the floor coming into
contact with water.  Once the LAH came into contact with the water,
a violent reaction took place, igniting the LAH.  The fire followed
the trail of LAH up to the bag causing a flash fire/explosion,
exposing employees to fire hazards.
One feasible method of abatement, among others, would be:
1.  Addition of the Lithium Aluminum Hydride into the reactor in a
more controlled manner, ie pellets or soluble bags containing the
LAH.
2.  Control of potential sources of ignition for the Lithium
Aluminum Hydride; ensure that the LAH does not come into contact
with water.

Issued

Oct 23, 1995

Abate by

Dec 10, 1995

Penalty

Initial $3,500 · Current $2,500 Reduced

Issued

Oct 23, 1995

Abate by

Dec 25, 1995

Penalty

Initial $875