Explosion at a hydrogen compressor

Five workers were in the process of trouble shooting a hydrogen compressor. No actual work was in process, but the compressor had still hydrogen in the lines. The three were only listening for obvious noises which would help diagnose the problem. A common 4" line ruptured, releasing hydrogen to the atmosphere, resulting in an explosion and a fire. 3 fatalities and 2 injuries.

The INITIATING cause was the loss of confinement of a hydrogen line. Two 'operators' had just brought the compressors for repair to 'machinists'. It is unknown if this was the common practice, but the fact that the hydrogen compressor had not purged as first operation hints at shortcoming in the safety measures.

hydrogen compressor, pipeline

The unit was shutdown, probably because of the problem with the compressor.

A specific lesson learnt is unknown. However, a review of the safety measures in case of repairs and trouble shooting would be recommended. For example, purging a hydrogen compressor could be a first measure, even before approaching it.