CSB report 2017-08-I-TX: Organic Peroxide Decomposition, Release, and Fire at Arkema Crosby Following Hurricane Harvey Flooding

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) released its final investigation report into the August 31, 2017, fire at the Arkema chemical plant in Crosby, Texas. In the days leading up to the incident, an unprecedented amount of rain fell at the plant due to Hurricane Harvey, causing equipment to flood and fail. As a result, chemicals stored at the plant decomposed and burned, releasing fumes and smoke into the air. The CSB called for more robust industry guidance to help hazardous chemical facilities better prepare for extreme weather events, like flooding, so that similar incidents can be avoided.

Significance score:

Clarity:

What are relevant lessons from others? What management measures are available?

Target Group(s):

  • HSE managers
  • Strategic leadership
  • Tactical leadership

Risk Theme:

  • Monitoring and Learning - Learning from Incidents
  • Risk | Control | Assurance - new risks
Category Publisher Maker Language

Incident onderzoek

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U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB)

English