Report summary
On September 25, 2019, a 64-year-old white non-Hispanic male automotive mechanic was injured in an explosion inside a service garage. He was welding on top of a nearly empty steel drum of flammable washer fluid, which caused the drum to explode. The explosion covered him with burning fluid and he died from the burns six weeks later.
| Incident Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Date | September 25, 2019 |
| Time | 12:30 p.m. |
| Victim | 64-year-old automotive mechanic |
| Industry/NAICS Code | Other gasoline stations/447190 |
| Employer | Gasoline station with service station and snack store |
| Safety & Training | Employer provided limited training |
| Scene | Bay inside repair garage |
| Location | Massachusetts |
| Event Type | Explosion |
Contributing factors
Key contributing factors identified in this investigation include:
- Worksite lacked a proper welding station
- Welding in the vicinity of a drum containing flammable material
- Lack of a safety and health program and overall safety training
Recommendations
Massachusetts FACE investigators concluded that, to help prevent similar occurrences, employers should:
- Provide an appropriate location to perform welding work. All hot work should be a safe distance away from flammable and combustible liquids. Ensure workers using welding equipment are trained in the safe operation of their equipment.
- Ensure that all workers are properly trained about hazardous materials in the workplace.
- Develop and implement a comprehensive safety and health program that addresses hazard recognition, avoidance of unsafe conditions, and proper use of equipment.
Download
| Date published: | July 15, 2022 |
|---|