DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

Medical: Employees who work in high noise areas are required to have their hearing checked before they begin work, then once a year until they leave the University. Anyone with a suspected work-related hearing loss will have a follow-up with an audiologist. The supervisor must ensure that employees go to UHS for the initial and annual tests, and keep any follow-up appointments Written Plan: The University has a written plan to comply with OSHAs regulation. This plan, the University of Rochester Hearing Conservation Plan, is available on request by contacting Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) at ext 5-3241. EH&S EH&S is responsible for maintaining the Universitys written plan and for identifying high noise areas. I. PURPOSE This program is intended to comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administrations Noise Exposure Standard The University of Rochesters Hearing Conservation Plan is designed to protect employees whose duties require them to work in areas where the potential for high intensity noise exposure exists. The purpose of this program is to prevent exposure to or injury from potentially damaging noise levels and serves the Universitys overall goal of providing a workplace that is free from all recognized hazards. This document provides information on the Universitys Hearing Conservation Plan, as well as other references, including the OSHA Occupational Noise Standard II. GENERAL PRINCIPLES The OSHA Occupational Noise Exposure Standard (29 CFR 1910.95 (a) and (b)) was enacted to protect employees against the effects of high intensity occupational noise. The original standard includes the following components: The standard sets permissible exposure levels and exposure duration at sound levels at or above 90dBA as an 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) per workday The standard requires the employer to reduce employee exposure to within this level by the use of feasible engineering/administrative controls If engineering/administrative controls do not reduce sound levels to the specified exposure range, personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided to the employee and used to reduce sound levels to the specified level The standard requires the combined effect of noise from varying sources be given special consideration The standard requires that distinctions between continuous and intermittent noise and associated sound levels be identified Exposure to impact or impulse noise should not exceed 140dBA. In addition, the hearing conservation amendment (29 CFR 1910.95 (c)(1)) requires that a continuing effective hearing conservation program be Page 1 of 10

CONTENT
OSHA Hearing Protection Standard Share the Lesson - Static Electricity Communicable Disease Material Safety Data Sheet- CHLORINE Safety Tips for Natural Gas Handling & Usage Learnings from the Mistakes 14th April observed as Fire Service Day 1 5 6 6 7 8 8

EDITORIAL
We are very happy for release of first issue of DPMC Safety ForumSafety Bulletin. This bulleting being brought out to spared the knowledge about safety for the benefit of all safety professionals & the industrial employees. The first ever effort made by the Industrial Safety Forum to touch upon the various aspect of Industrial Health Safety, Health & Environment in the form of news letter. This is an experience sharing exercise by our safety professionals. We hope that readers would find this issue useful. Your suggestions for further improvements are welcome. Sd/Editorial Committee.

Hearing Protection Standard (OSHA Standard)

- 29 CFR 1910.95 The purpose of this standard is protect employees over exposure to noise and to prevent hearing loss. This standard also states that employees must understand how to protect their hearing. The actions needed to comply with this standard include: Training: UHS trains employees and fits them with hearing protection devices at the time of their initial and annual hearing tests. This training includes the explanation of reasons for using hearing protection, the proper use of hearing protectors, how to care for hearing protectors, the Universitys Hearing Conservation Program, and an introduction to audiometric testing PPE: The department must provide personal protective equipment (PPE), in the form of hearing protectors, to any employees who work in a high noise area. UHS will work with employees to determine what offers the best protection. The department must provide a clean place to store PPE when not in use.

Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society implemented whenever employee exposure exceeds 85 dBA as an 8-hour TWA, or an equivalent dose of 50% of the exposure limit, without regard to the use of hearing protectors. This hearing conservation amendment also requires that employees whose noise exposures at the work site equals or exceeds the action level of 85dBA be included in a hearing conservation program. The components of this program shall be described later in this document. The amendment (29 CFR 1910.95 (c) through (o)) also details provisions dealing with monitoring employee noise exposures, annual audiometric testing for employees exposed to 85dBA or more as an 8-hour TWA, retesting under some circumstances, selection of appropriate hearing protectors, employee training and education, and record maintenance. III. Summary of the Requirements of OSHA's Occupational Noise Exposure Standard The following sections describe the requirements of the Hearing Conservation Standard. The Federal Register (48 FR 9738, March 8, 1983) discusses these topics in greater depth. A. Monitoring - The hearing conservation amendment requires employers to monitor noise exposure levels in a manner that will accurately identify employees who are exposed at or above 85-dBA as an 8-hour TWA, or equivalently, a dose of 50% of the PEL. The monitoring requirement includes the following points: 1. All exposure measurements shall include all noise within the 80 to 130 dBA range, and includes both continuous and intermittent sources of noise 2. Some workers may experience varying sound level exposures due to high mobility, significant variations in sound levels, or significant impact noise, and area monitoring may be inappropriate. Personal sampling that is representative of the employees exposure, produces equivalent results, and complies with the standard shall be used in these cases. 3. Instruments used for monitoring employee exposure must be calibrated to ensure that measurements are accurate 4. Employers shall re-monitor worker exposure for sound levels whenever there is a change in continues or intermittent noise levels due to a change in process/equipment or work assignment 5. The employer shall notify employees exposed to sound levels at or above 85dB as an 8-hour TWA of the results of the monitoring 6. Affected employees shall have the opportunity to observe the monitoring Please refer to 29 CFR 1910.95 (d), (e) and (f) for a more complete review of this section. B. Audiometric Testing - Audiometric testing not only monitors employee hearing acuity over time, but also provides an opportunity for employers to educate employees about their hearing and the need to protect it. The audiometric testing program includes:

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

Baseline audiograms Annual audiograms Training and follow-up procedures Audiometric testing must be made available at no cost to all employees who exceed a 50% noise dose (the action level). A designated professional (audiologist, otolaryngologist, or physician, etc.) must be responsible for the program and meet with the professional and competence standards described in the Noise Control Standard. Professional responsibilities include: Overseeing the program and the work of the technicians Reviewing problem audiograms Determining whether referral is necessary Both professionals and trained technicians (as certified by the Council of Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation) may conduct audiometric testing. In addition to administering audiometric tests, the supervising professional is also responsible for : Ensuring that the audiometer works properly Conducting audiometric tests in an appropriate test environment For reviewing audiograms for standard threshold shifts (STS) identifying problem audiograms requiring further evaluation by a professional. There are two essential components of the medical testing program. These include conducting and evaluating all audiogram tests. 1. Audiograms - There are two types of audiograms required: a. Baseline audiogram-an audiogram performed within 6 months of an employees first exposure to occupational noise at or above the action level 85dBA. This audiogram serves as a reference against which future audiograms are compared. If the baseline audiogram will be obtained more than six months after the employees first exposure at or above the action level, the employee shall wear hearing protectors until the baseline audiogram is obtained. In addition, whenever a baseline audiogram is to be obtained from an employee, the employee shall have limited noise exposure at least 14 hours prior to testing. If necessary, hearing protectors may be used to limit the employees exposure to noise. b. Annual audiogram-once the baseline has been established, the employer must obtain a new audiogram within one year of the baseline, and then subsequent yearly audiograms if the employee is exposed above the Action Level. 2. Audiogram Evaluation The employees annual audiogram shall be compared to his or her baseline audiogram to determine if the annual audiogram is valid and to determine if a standard threshold shift (STS) has occurred. The standard defines an STS as an average audiogram shift of 10dB or more at 2,000, 3,000 or 4,000 Hz in either ear.

Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

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DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society Whenever a problem audiogram has been identified the audiologist May retest the employee within 30 days and consider the retest the employees annual audiogram Shall review problem audiograms and determine whether further evaluation is required Shall provide all information necessary to perform the evaluation including the employees baseline and most recent audiograms, and information pertaining to test room and equipment requirements as outlined in the noise standard and its appendices. Whenever an STS has been identified, follow-up procedures include: That the employer shall inform the employee, in writing, of the test results within 21 days of the determination If an STS is determined to be work related, employees shall be fitted and trained for hearing protectors if they are not currently using them or refitted and retrained in the use of hearing protectors if they are currently using them That the employee shall be referred for further clinical or audiologic testing or evaluation, as appropriate, shall be examined to determine if the hearing protectors are aggravating or promoting any medical conditions, and informed of any medical condition of the ear that is unrelated to the use of hearing protectors If subsequent testing of the employee, exposed at or below 90dBA as an 8-hour TWA, shows that the STS is not persistent, the employer shall inform the employee of the new test and evaluation result and discontinue the use of hearing protection for that employee A recent, or annual audiogram may be substituted for the baseline audiogram, if the audiologist determines that: The STS identified in the audiogram is persistent There has been an improvement in the employees hearing over the baseline The replacement audiogram is known as the revised baseline, which will help to identify any subsequent shifts in hearing should they occur. As defined by the standard, an STS is a shift in hearing of 10dB or more in either ear, at 2,000, 3,000 or 4,000 Hz. The standard recognizes the effects of natural aging upon hearing, and makes allowances for the application of age correction factors in evaluating an employees annual audiogram. In order to obtain valid audiograms, audiometric equipment and facilities must be used, calibrated and maintained according to specifications described in the noise control standard. Please refer to 29 CFR 1910.95 (g) and (h), and appendices C, D, E and F for a complete discussion of the audiogram and testing requirements. C. Hearing Protectors and Protector Attenuation - Hearing protectors are made available to all workers exposed at or above the Action Level for noise (85dBA TWA) at no cost to the employee. The employer shall ensure that hearing protectors are worn by employees whenever: 1. Feasible engineering/administrative controls fail to reduce noise levels to 90dBA or less 2. An employee is exposed to 85dBA and has a. Not yet had a baseline audiogram or b. Experienced and STS.

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

Employees will have the opportunity to select hearing protectors with the help of a professional trained in the selection and fitting of these devices. The protectors should be comfortable to wear and provide sufficient attenuation of noise to specified levels. The employer shall also provide for employees 1. Training in the use and care of the protectors 2. Appropriate fitting and supervision to ensure correct use of these devices at the work-site. Hearing protectors shall provide adequate attenuation of noise for each employee. Hearing protector attenuation shall be evaluated for each specific work environment (Appendix B of the noise standard) by the employer, and the protectors must 1. Reduce noise exposure to 90dBA or less as an 8-hour TWA 2. Reduce noise exposure to 85dBA or less for workers who have not yet received a baseline audiogram or who have experienced and STS The adequacy of hearing protectors shall be reevaluated by the employer whenever 1. There is a change in the employees work conditions or noise exposure levels, and the current protectors may not provide adequate attenuation 2. An STS has occurred in a worker, therefore exposure levels need to be reduced through the use of PPE to 85dBA or less as and 8-hour TWA Where necessary, the employer shall provide more effective hearing protectors. 29 CFR1910.95 (i) and (j) and corresponding appendices provide a complete discussion on hearing protectors and attenuation of noise. D. Training - The University of Rochester is responsible for providing training to employees exposed to noise at or above an eight hour time-weighted average of 85dBA. The training program shall be repeated annually for each employee, and will contain information that is up to date and includes any changes regarding the work environment or process, as well as changes in personal protective equipment (such as hearing protectors). A training program shall be provided by the employer and will include the following components: 1. The effects of noise on hearing 2. The purpose, advantages and disadvantages of properly fitting hearing protectors for attenuating noise levels 3. Selection of hearing protectors 4. Fitting and use of hearing protectors 5. The care of hearing protectors 6. The purpose and procedures for audiometric testing

Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

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DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society The employee or their supervisor shall have access to information and materials, upon request, regarding this program including: 1. Copies of the noise control standard 2. Access to training and hearing conservation materials for this program 3. Training or educational materials from this program pertaining to the noise control standard The employer will provide training and educational materials that best suit each situation as it pertains to noise exposure, control and hearing conservation. The training requirements are such that they will promote employee awareness and participation, and allow for routine assessment of the level of compliance of the program by the employer. E. Record Keeping and Access to Records - The employer is responsible for maintaining records for certain periods of time as specified in the hearing conservation amendment (29 CFR 1910.95 (m)). Recording keeping requirements of the noise control standard include: 1. Maintaining noise exposure measurement records for a period of 2 years 2. Retaining hearing test records that include a. The name and job classification of the employee b. Dates of all audiogram tests c. Examiners name d. Date of the last acoustic or exhaustive calibration of test equipment, measurements of the background sound levels in audiogram test rooms e. The employees most recent noise exposure measurement 3. Audiometric test records must be maintained for the duration of the affected individuals employment The records required by this section must also be made available upon request to affected employees and other specified individuals as described under this section and also under 29 CFR 1910.20 (a)-(e) and (g)-(i). For a complete discussion on record keeping, please refer to these sections of the Standard. IV. RESPONSIBILITIES This section provides a description of each departments responsibilities in accordance with the Hearing Conservation Program. A. Industrial Hygiene Unit (IH Unit) of Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) 1. Perform environmental sound pressure level measurements in areas of potentially excessive noise exposure, or whenever there is a change in process, equipment, or production that may affect an individuals exposure to noise: a. Evaluate noise measurements and identify exposure at or above the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 90 dBA as an 8-hour TWA b. Monitor employee exposures in areas where noise levels may exceed 85 dBA as an 8-hour TWA (action level) c. Recommend feasible engineering controls d. Perform Noise exposure computations e. Estimate adequacy of hearing protectors Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

2. Report findings to employees, appropriate department supervisors and UHS 3. Provide program oversight and make recommendations 4. Maintain necessary records 5. Maintain the Universitys written plan B. Supervisors and Facilities Managers 1. Make them selves familiar with the Universitys Hearing Conservation Program, and ensure that employees comply with the requirements of this plan 2. Ensure that all of their facilities have been surveyed and that all high noise areas or work activities have been identified 3. Help to identify employees who have the potential for exposure to sound levels that exceed the OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) 4. Enrol eligible employees in to the hearing surveillance program with University Health Services (UHS) 5. Make sure that employees are educated and trained on safe working practices 6. Ensure that employees are trained and properly fit tested for the use of hearing protectors 7. Ensure that hearing protectors are properly used by the employees where necessary 8. Provide a clean area where hearing protectors can be stored 9. Maintain necessary records C. University Health Service (UHS) 1. Administer a continuing and effective hearing conservation program that includes audiometric testing for all employees whose exposure equals or exceeds an 8-hour TWA of 85dBA (action level) 2. Conduct baseline and annual audiograms, evaluate the audiograms for standard threshold shifts (STS), conduct retesting when necessary and provide evaluations to the employee 3. When an STS has occurred, provide medical follow-up of exposure testing results and make provisions for retesting and revising baseline audiograms where necessary 4. Provide general training and fit testing in the use of hearing protectors 5. Retrain and refit employees in the use of hearing protection if an STS has occurred 6. Maintain an audiogram test system that complies with the noise standard, meets with the calibration requirements of the National Standard Specification Audiometers S3.6-1969, and with the requirements described in Appendices C, D and E of the standard 7. Maintain necessary records D. Employees 1. Comply with the University of Rochesters Statement of Safety Policy (Appendix 1) and with the Hearing Conservation Program 2. Carry out their duties in a manner so as to promote safe work practices 3. Use the provided hearing protectors in accordance with training and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) 4. Make sure that their hearing protectors are in good condition 5. Inform their supervisors when they need replacement hearing protectors

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DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society 6. Communicate any problems in the work process or new hazards that may compromise the effectiveness of the hearing conservation practices 7. Keep all medical surveillance and audiogram appointments at UHS V. APPENDICES A. Appendix 1 - University of Rochester Statement of Safety Policy It is the policy of the University of Rochester to provide a work environment that is free from all recognized hazards. The Universitys general and specific safety programs are intended to comply with the various policies set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The intent and purpose of each policy is to promote safety and well being of all persons on University property and to protect its facilities from damage from unsafe acts or conditions. It is the responsibility of all employees, students and staff to participate in the Universitys efforts to control hazards and to promote safety. It is the responsibility of each supervisor and of the Universitys Chief Safety Officer to administer the Universitys Safety Program. Programs will be developed where necessary by departmental supervisors with the guidance and assistance of the Chief Safety Officer and other appropriate individuals so as to design and execute such programs.
(Source: OSHAS web site)

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

3.The majority of those affected used rubber-soled footwear and clothes of synthetic fibers. 4.Never use mobile phones when filling up with fuel. 5.It is well known that it is the vapour that comes from the petrol that burns and causes the fire when it makes contact with static charges. 6.In twenty-nine of the cases analysed, the people reentered their vehicles and later touched the pistols during the petrol fueling process. This happened in cars of different varieties of makes and models. 7.Seventeen fires occurred before, during or immediately after the cap of the petrol tank was removed and before starting to fill up with petrol. 8.The static charge often results from when a passenger rubs their clothes against the upholstery of the seats on getting in or out of the vehicle. To avoid this, it is recommendable that NOBODY gets in or out of the vehicle while the petrol is being poured in. Movement in or out should only be done BEFORE starting, or when the fueling is finished and the petrol cap placed. 9.MAXIMISE THE PRECAUTIONS if the petrol has spill or splashed onto the ground. Highly inflammable vapors are immediately produced which can be ignited by sparks of static electricity from the turning on of electronic equipment (mobile phones, remote controls, etc.) or by the ignition of the vehicle itself. BEFORE starting up the engine again, the spill petrol must be gathered or neutralised by the petrol station staff. LOADING PETROL IN YOUR VEHICLE: Stop, put the handbrake on and turn off the engine, radio and lights. NEVER: Never return to your vehicle while you are pouring in fuel. AS A PRECAUTION : Get used to closing the car door on getting out or into the vehicle and in this way the static electricity will be discharged on touching something metallic. After closing the door TOUCH THE METAL PART OF THE BODYWORK before touching the petrol pump pistol. By doing this the static electricity in your body will be discharged on the metal and not on the pistol. RESPECT THE SAFETY REGULATIONS As mentioned, we undertake this as a daily task, both inside and outside the company. The following bulletin aims to raise public awareness of this danger. We ask you information to ALL your friends and family, especially those carrying children in the cars when pouring in petrol.

Share the Lesson - Static Electricity

Static Electricity in Petrol Stations: As a continuation of the video about static electricity in which a girl had a fire accident on getting out of her car and directly touching the nose piece, we come across a similar case:

Car after the incident With the generalization of self-service facilities in petrol stations (in abroad) people should be warned about the outbreak of fires resulting from static electricity while they are pouring in petrol. 150 cases of this type of fire have been investigated and the results were very surprising. 1.Of the 150 cases, more happened to women than men, due to their habit of getting in and out of the vehicle while the petrol is being poured in. 2.In the majority of cases the people had re-entered their cars when the hose was still pouring petrol out (the danger of the triggers on the nose pieces). When they finished re-fueling and got out to remove the hose pistol the fire began, as a result of the static electricity. Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

(Source: Petroleum Journal )

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DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

A greenish yellow gas with a pungent suffocating odour. Toxic by inhalation. Slightly soluble in water. Liquefies at -35C and room pressure. Readily liquefied by pressure applied at room temperature. Density (as a liquid) 13.0 lb / gal. Contact with unconfined liquid can cause frostbite by evaporative cooling. Does not burn but, like oxygen, supports combustion. Long-term inhalation of low concentrations or shortterm inhalation of high concentrations has ill effects. Vapors are much heavier than air and tend to settle in low areas. Used to purify water, bleach wood pulp, and to make other chemicals. Rate of onset: Immediate to hours Persistence: Minutes to hours Odour threshold: 3.5 ppm Source/use/other hazard: Cleaner/disinfectant in many industries; water treatment; World War 1st as war gas; irritating corrosive fumes heavier than air. Fire Hazard: May ignite other combustible materials (wood, paper, oil, etc.). Mixture with fuels may cause explosion. Container may explode in heat of fire. Vapor explosion and poison hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Hydrogen and chlorine mixtures (5-95%) are exploded by almost any form of energy (heat, sunlight, sparks, etc.). May combine with water or steam to produce toxic and corrosive fumes of hydrochloric acid. Emits highly toxic fumes when heated. Avoid plastics and rubber. Avoid heat and contact with hydrogen gas or powdered metals. Fire Fighting: Evacuate area endangered by gas. Stay upwind; keep out of low areas. Wear positive pressure breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. Move container from fire area if you can do so without risk. Spray cooling water on containers that are exposed to flames until well after fire is out. If it is necessary to stop the flow of gas, use water spray to direct escaping gas away from those effecting shut-off. Will not burn, but most combustible materials will burn in chlorine as they do in oxygen; flammable gases will form explosive mixtures with chlorine. Dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, fog or foam. Protective Clothing: Skin: Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin from becoming frozen from contact with the liquid or from contact with vessels containing the liquid. Eyes: Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact with the liquid that could result in burns or tissue damage from frostbite. Wash skin: No recommendation is made specifying the need for washing the substance from the skin (either immediately or at the end of the work shift). Remove: No recommendation is made specifying the need for removing clothing that becomes wet or contaminated. Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the work shift. Provide: Quick drench facilities and/or eyewash fountains Page 6 of 10

Communicable Disease
What is cholera? Cholera is a bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. It is caused by a germ called Vibrio cholera. Who gets cholera? While cholera is a rare disease, those who may be at risk include people traveling where outbreaks are occurring and people who consume raw or undercooked seafood from warm coastal waters subject to sewage contamination. In both instances, the risk is small. How is the germ spread? The cholera germ is passed in the stools. It is spread by eating or drinking food or water contaminated by the fecal waste of an infected person. This occurs more often in underdeveloped countries lacking adequate water supplies and proper sewage disposal. What are the symptoms of cholera? People exposed to cholera may experience mild to severe diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration. Fever is usually absent. How soon do symptoms appear? The symptoms may appear from a few hours to five days after exposure. What is the treatment for cholera? Because of the rapid dehydration that may result from severe diarrhea, replacement of fluids by mouth or by the intravenous route is critical. Antibiotics, such as tetracycline, are also used to shorten the duration of diarrhea and shedding of the germs in the feces. Is there a vaccine for cholera? A vaccine is available. However, the vaccine offers only partial protection (50%) for a short duration (two to six months). How can cholera be prevented? The single most important preventive measure is to avoid consuming uncooked foods or water in foreign countries where cholera occurs unless they are known to be safe or have been properly treated.
(Source: Web site New York Sate Department of Health)

Material Safety Data Sheet: CHLORINE

Chemical Name: CHLORINE Formula : UN Hazard Class : UN Number : CAS Number : Cl2 POISON GAS, CORROSIVE 1017 7782-50-5

NFPA Code : Fire Health 0 4

Reactivity 0

Special Oxidizer

General Description : Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society should be provided within the immediate work area for emergency use where there is any possibility of exposure to liquids that are extremely cold or rapidly evaporating. Non-Fire Response: Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Do not apply water to point of leak in tank car or container. Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors. Vapor knockdown water is corrosive or toxic and should be diked for containment. Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash or cement powder. Neutralize with dilute caustic soda (NaOH) or soda ash (Na2CO3). Water spill: Add dilute caustic soda (NaOH). If dissolved, in region of 10 ppm or greater concentration, apply activated carbon at ten times the spilled amount. Use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates Health Hazard: Poisonous; may be fatal if inhaled. Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes. Bronchitis or chronic lung conditions. Properties: Auto Ignition Temp: Melting Point: Vapor Pressure: Vapor Density: Specific Gravity: Boiling Point: Molecular Weight: IDLH: TLV TWA: TLV STEL: Water Solubility: Not flammable -150 F 760 mm Hg at 86 F 2.49 1.56 -30.3 F at 760 mm Hg 70.91 10 ppm 0.5 ppm 1 ppm 0.7 %

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

plastic sheeting and disposable bags preventing spread of contamination. to assist in

Inhalation Exposure: 1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to chlorine. 2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support. 3. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures. 4. Transport to a health care facility. Dermal/Eye Exposure: 1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self- exposure to chlorine. 2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support. 3. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible. 4. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes. 5. Wash exposed skin areas for at least 15 minutes with soap and water. 6. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures. 7. Transport to a health care facility. Reactivity AIR AND WATER REACTIONS: Water dissolves about twice its volume of chlorine gas, forming a mixture of hydrochloric acid and hypochlorous acids. Will be corrosive due to acidity and oxidizing potential. Slightly soluble in water. CHEMICAL PROFILE: CHLORINE reacts explosively with or supports the burning of numerous common materials. Ignites steel at 100C in the presence of soot, rust, carbon, or other catalysts. Ignites dry steel wool at 50C. Reacts as either a liquid or gas with alcohols (explosion), molten aluminum (explosion), silane (explosion), bromine pentafluoride, carbon disulfide (explosion catalyzed by iron), 1-chloro-2-propyne (excess chlorine causes an explosion), dibutyl phthalate (explosion at 118C), diethyl ether (ignition), diethyl zinc (ignition), glycerol (explosion at 70-80C), methane over yellow mercury oxide (explosion), acetylene (explosion initiated by sunlight or heating), ethylene over mercury, mercury(I) oxide, or silver(I) oxide (explosion initiated by heat or light), gasoline (exothermic reaction then detonation), naphtha-sodium hydroxide mixture (violent explosion), zinc chloride (exothermic reaction), wax (explosion), hydrogen (explosion initiated by light), Reacts as either a liquid or gas with carbides of iron, uranium and zirconium, with hydrides of potassium sodium and copper, with tin, aluminum powder, vanadium powder, aluminum foil, brass foil, copper foil, calcium powder, iron wire, manganese powder, potassium, antimony powder, bismuth, germanium, magnesium, sodium, and zinc.

Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. First Aid: Warning: Effects may be delayed. Caution is advised. Chlorine is corrosive and may be converted to hydrochloric acid in the lungs. Signs and Symptoms of Acute Chlorine Exposure: Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to chlorine may include tachycardia (rapid heart rate), hypertension (high blood pressure) followed by hypotension (low blood pressure), and cardiovascular collapse. Pulmonary edema and pneumonia are often seen. The eyes, nose, throat, and chest may sting or burn following exposure to chlorine. Cough with bloody sputum, a feeling of suffocation, dizziness, agitation, anxiety, nausea, and vomiting are common. Dermal exposure may result in sweating, pain, irritation, and blisters. Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to chlorine may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as chlorine-resistant Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

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Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society Causes ignition and a mild explosion when bubbled through cold methanol. Explodes or ignites if mixed in excess with ammonia and warmed. Causes ignition in contact with hydrazine, hydroxylamine, and calcium nitride. Forms explosive nitrogen trichloride from biuret contaminated with cyanuric acid. Readily forms an explosive N-chloro derivative with aziridine. Ignites or explodes with arsine, phosphine, silane, diborane, stibine, red phosphorus, white phosphorus, boron, active carbon, silicon, arsenic. Ignites sulfides at ambient temperature. Ignites (as a liquid) synthetic and natural rubber. Ignites trialkylboranes and tungsten dioxide. REACTIVE GROUPS: Inorganic Oxidizing Agents, Halogenating Agents, Strong Reactive Hazards Strong Oxidizing Agent, Water-Reactive
(Source: CAMEO U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY)

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

Consult GGCL if any modification / construction works are to be carried out near or on gas pipeline or equipment Do get adjusted carefully gas burner to provide the correct air-gas mixture. Do know how to shut appliances off in an emergency. Do follow manufacturer's instructions for turning equipment on or off, or maintenance of equipment. Do check the flexible connectors on gas appliances for gas leak if they are old or have been moved frequently. Natural Gas Donts: Do not try to locate a gas leak yourself. Do not cover gas appliances' sources of fresh air that supply air to gas appliances / burners. Adequate "combustion air" is critical to safe operation. Do not sleep in a room with an un-vented gas. Do not wear loose garments that can catch fire. Do not keep /store flammable materials like petrol, diesel, oil or paint thinner indoors or near gas appliances / burner / furnace / installation. (Especially, do not use the oven / furnace area as a storage area for anything.) Do not hang things from gas pipes. Do not change setting of gas equipment like regulator, safety valve etc on gas installation Do not make any modification / extension from the installed gas pipeline without approval of GGCL. Do not add / replace / remove any burner / equipment / appliance without approval of GGCL Do not carry out any hot work near producing heat or spark near gas installation Do not allow unqualified / un-authorised persons to turn on or attempt to light gas appliances. Do not lay other utilities like electrical / telephone cable near underground gas pipeline laid in your premises Do not allow wiring or other objects to touch any gas connection or piping. Do not allow chemicals, cleaning solutions or insect sprays around connectors and pipes, as they cause corrosion. Do not allow gas burner / heater / oven to dry staff clothes. Do not open isolation valve to resume gas supply without instruction of GGCL during shut down job on gas installation or network.
(Source: GGCL Safety Tips)

Safety Tips for Natural Gas Handling & Usage

Natural Gas Dos: Do inform GGCL of any fire at or near gas installation, suspected gas leakage or malfunctioning of gas equipment, close main isolation valve Do call GGCL from a safe place outside suspected gas leak area. Do keep a (dry chemical powder) fire extinguisher near gas installation Do install and maintain caution boards at gas installations Do inform GGCL in advance for necessary advise / precautions if any excavation work is to be carried out near / above the underground NG pipeline Do keep appliance surfaces free of dust and grease. Do keep the area around furnace & furnace vents, gas appliances & burner and heater & hot surfaces clean and free from debris & flammable materials curtains, paper, cleaning products, paints, rags. Do keep the gas pipeline & equipment free from effect of other pipelines / chemicals to avoid corrosion. Do prevent any external load acting upon gas pipeline or equipment Do keep chimney flues and vents for appliances clean and in good repair for proper venting of gas byproducts / furnace flue from gas appliances through properly sealed ventilation ducts to outside. Do clean or replace air filters of heating system regularly before they become clogged with dirt. Do allow only trained & authorised person to operate natural gas equipment / appliances. keep unauthorised persons away from gas appliances Do educate everyone what to do if they notice / suspect gas leak. Do ensure easy accessibility to appliance doors and furnace panels. Do ensure correct installation, inspection, regular service and/or repairing of natural gas appliances, equipment, gas burner & furnace by licensed or qualified professionals only for maximum performance, safety and longevity.

Learnings from the Accident Case Study of Industrial Accident:

Date : 04/01/2006 Time : 14:47 hrs. Incidence: During nitration in reactor runaway reaction occurred and suddenly the pressure of reactor rose and explosion took place within few seconds. Manhole of reactor was given away due to high pressure. Nitric Acid, sulfuric Acid & Benzoic Acid were involved in reaction. In this incident the mixtures of acids were splashed in process plant, company ground and nearby company. The roof sheets of plant were broken due to explosion. It was sprayed up to about 200 300 meters in down wind direction. Page 8 of 10

Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society Cause: As per information received from company officials the explosion was occurred due to runaway reaction during nitration from reactor of process plant. Actions during emergency: Lime was sprayed on the acidic mixture in whole the affected area in company & on the road also for neutralization. Collected the neutralized mixer & sent for incineration. After that the road was washed out with water. Company people also sprayed lime on the acid mixture in their company ground & Process Plant. Preventive Measures: 1. Process parameters to be followed strictly. 2. PRV & safety valve to be maintained in good working condition with proper venting system which shall be tested at regular frequency. 3. Such vessel shall be provided with Rupture disc & a Dump tank to contain the spillage & effects of such reactions. 4. Periodical maintenance & inspection should be done. 5. Laboratory Study for knowledge relative to normal & abnormal known deviation in raw material, process parameter. 6. Process Safety management shall be followed in total. 7. Material Incompatibility study shall be done. 8. Detailed Risk assessment study shall be carried out in the form of HAZOP & FMEA. 9. Employees should be trained in process safety.
(Source: DPMC Emergency Call Details)

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

Ammunitions. Bombay Cargo was 1395 Tons of Explosives and Ammunitions and Service Stores. The ship reached Karachi on 30th March, 1944 where a part of Cargo was discharged, leaving void 2,86,000 cu. Feet in her hold. The new Cargo loaded was cotton, timber, lubricating oil, resin, sulphur and other combustible material. The ship then left Karachi on 9th April, 1944 and reached Bombay on 9th April, 1944. No explosives or ammunition were off loaded until the ship has been alongside for 24 hours. Now BY LAWS OF B.P.T [Bombay Port Trust] A Ship carrying explosives is not allowed into docks, but under Rule 88 of the Defense of India Rules, This By-Law is suspended in case where Military Officer has given a Certificate of GRAVE EMERGENCY. Such a certificate was issued for S S Fort Stikline The ship was anchored at Victoria Dock Bombay and the Memorable Day, throughout the morning, she was active as cargo hooks swayed a load of commodities from the S S Fort Stikline. Firemen were at Fire Stations as usual shining their brass to keep their fire engines shining. On 14th April, 1994, at 1400 hrs. A Whip of smoke noticed from No.: II hold of the ship. Frantic series of short blast of whistles were heard warning of fire board. The ship crew started pouring musky water in the ship hold. Fire Engines from Alexandar Dock and Air Force Squad arrived immediately and started hose streams in smoking hold to control fire spread. The fireman though aware of the dangerous situation, there was no panic. The prompt arrival of the Fire Engines seemed no reason to think that the fire could not be controlled. Soon it became apparent that the firemen were loosing ground. A call was put through to Mumbai Fire Brigade control for Additional appliances. At 1430 hrs. a large part of Fire Service were on pliers. Total 32 Water Jets came into action pouring gallons of water into ship hold to quench the fire. The Fire was still gained. There was something preventing the water from reaching the seat of fire. The deck head under the firemens feet grew hotter and hotter. The water stream played over the deck head turned into steam. It was now clear that the fire was out of control. Slides and Deck became CHERRY RED, blenching thick black and brown smoke. Flames shot mast high but sound never reached firemens ear.

14th April observed as Fire Service Day

14th April every year is observed as Fire Service Day in India as a part to pay homage to those brave Fire Fighters who sacrificed their live in line to their duty on 14th April, 1944. Industries and Civil Fire Services observe this day as Fire Service day and conducts Training, Drills and Rehearsals to demonstrate the Preparedness to combat emergencies.

This case study to understand how and what went wrong which lead to multiply the severity of the accident resulting heavy toll of which was paid by lives of fire fighters and thousands of civilians. The Ship in which accident took place named S S Fort Stikline having capacity of 7000 Tons belonged to Ministry of War and Transport. The ship left Birkinhead UK on 24th February, 1944. Convey of 20 other ships with cargo for Karachi and Bombay was loaded. The Karachi Cargo Contained RAF Planes, General Stores, Explosives and Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety Page 9 of 10

DPMC Safety Forum Safety Bulletin

Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society 1605 Hrs. : Ground rumbled and EXPLOSION: S S Fort Stikline Blew Up with its gallant firemen and fire engines disappeared from the face of earth. No. of ships destroyed nearby. At one stroke the key port of Bombay was taken out of war. 1636 Hrs. : SECOND EXPLOSION: Explosion was heard miles away. Entire Dock up to few kms and was in flames. 14 other ships standing aside destroyed. 336 people burned. All nearby/around people and animals died. Many Fire Fighters died or disabled. The Number of persons who died in the Explosion will never be known and figures are conflicting. NFPA Handbook listed 731 dead whereas other sources said 1500 Died/Missing and more than 3000 Injured.

Vol. 01 / No. 01 April-May 2006

Ensure to do the following at works: Always ensure your work area clean before starting the job. Avoid use of damaged cords & temporary connections. Always ensure immediate repairing / replacement of damaged electrical sockets. Ensure strict supervision while carrying out Welding / Gas Cutting jobs. Know where the nearest Fire Call Point along with location of all fire fighting equipments in your area. Keep firefighting equipments & means of escape clear of obstructions. Ensure all your fire extinguishers are available at their designated place. In curiosity, dont operate any fire fighting equipment. Ensure availability of fire trained personnel in every shift (in your section). Always smoke at areas designated for Smoking.
(Legal Statement: This is not an authenticated document and hence no Claim to any data or details provided in this topic. The photographs used are not of the ship in which accident occurred.)

For any suggestions & details write to

Recorded Fatalities were: ORGANIZATION Bombay Auxiliary Fire Service Bombay Fire Brigade Bombay Salvage Corps Bombay Port Trust Employees City Police Ship Crews Army Air Force Navy Crew of Country Craft KILLED 42 24 12 84 14 41 15 07 04 INJURED 85 02
Not Known Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society Disaster Prevention & Management Centre, Plot No-G/S-3, Fire Station, GIDC, Ankleshwar 393 002 Tel: (02646) 220229, 653101, Cell: 9426889616 Email: dpmcank@sancharnet.in dpmcank@d2visp.com

55 123 30 15 160 10

Editorial Committee
Vijay Asar - DPMC, Ankleshwar Environmental Preservation Society Prashant B. Amrutkar - Asian Paints Ltd. Dilip S. Lote - Gujarat Gas Company Ltd (GGCL) J. C. Trivedi- United Phosphorus Ltd. D. V. Petkar - Lupin Ltd. Atul K Chitnis - Disaster Prevention & Management Centre
For private circulation only.

Couple of months after the Disaster, 3083 people had requested claims for damage by Fire or Explosion to their property. 11735 had put up Claim for uninsured properties. 466 Uninsured people claimed as compensation for personal injuries. The Compensation paid out 850 Lakhs as damage by fire/explosion. Marine Insurance was 150 Lakhs. Paid for uninsured properties were 300 lakhs and personal injuries were 13 lakhs with miscellaneous policies of 4.5 lakhs. Government of India declared this day of 14th April every year to be observed as Fire Service Day in recognition of the valor and sacrifice of the courageous FIRE FIGHTERS who laid down their lives in Line of their Duty. Industries conduct Fire Fighting Training Mock Drills, Fire Drills or Emergency Drills every year on this day to pay homage and create awareness and knowledge about handling emergencies in their fellow workers.

Time for Safety Is All the Time Safety

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