BOC fined after explosion causes life-changing injuries 11 August 2014

BOC has been fined £175,000 plus £85,000 costs following an explosion in January 2010 at one of its manufacturing plants in Bristol, which left one worker with life changing injuries and two others hurt.

Bristol Crown Court heard last Friday (8 August 2014) that a worker was filling an acetylene cylinder as part of a routine operation at BOC's Dissolved Acetylene Filling Plant, in Brislington, when the incident happened.

The acetylene solution became unstable and the cylinder exploded, starting a fire that burned for eight days.

An investigation by HSE found that BOC had failed to ensure the health, safety and welfare of its employees, and did not take necessary measures to prevent a major accident.

No evidence was presented on the other charge concerning a breach of the Control of Major Accident Hazard Regulations 1999.

"[The worker's] serious injuries could have been avoided with some simple measures, such as a thorough assessment of the risks, including an identification of human error potential and the design of the work," comments HSE inspector Evan Bale.

"The company fell below the standard expected for controlling risks associated with handling this hazardous chemical," he continues.

"BOC's plant in Brislington is a top tier major hazard site and is subject to the COMAH regulations. There is no excuse for any major hazard operator failing to take all necessary measures to prevent major accidents."

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
BOC Ltd
Health & Safety Executive

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.