"treated for burn injuries after a furnace exploded...."

One of most feared hazards our industry mitigates on a daily basis is molten metal explosions. This hazard has resulted in numerous catastrophes. For the longest time it was our deadliest hazard until the recent apocalyptic catastrophes involving aluminium fines. Regardless, molten metal explosions can have horrific long term consequences for workers injured or killed. As well as the plants where they occur. Here is a recent incident.

One person is being treated for burn injuries after a furnace exploded at an aluminium foundry in the USA.

The explosion happened just before 3:00 p.m. one day during the week of October 14, 2018.

Fire crews were able to contain the fire to one area, leaving only smoke damage throughout the rest of the building.

One man was taken to be treated for injuries and burns sustained from molten metal.

We pray that the injured worker recovers fully from his injuries. The news media article lacks information regarding the severity of the burns.

The Aluminium Association (USA) says it best, “Mixing water or other contaminants with molten aluminum can cause explosions. Explosions can also occur in the aluminum scrap re-melting process due to moisture and contamination in scrap.”

So though this post lacks root cause information, nevertheless it is important. Print it out and show your management and personnel. Ask this simple question “Can an explosion occur here?” If the answer is no, be very concerned. No plant is immune to explosion. No plant.

The Aluminium Times had an article about the latest revision to the Aluminium Association's Guidelines for Handling Molten Aluminium. This document is the industry's best practices toward safety. Most companies use this document as the minimum in terms of their various safety protocols. The article can be downloaded here.

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