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Hyrogen generated from use of incinerator bottom ash suspected

Barhale has issued a Safety Alert concerning the use of foam concrete containing incinerator bottom ash (IBA) on their projects following an explosion. 

The alert suggests the foam concrete was placed into a dry well extending beneath a metal floor. It is believed that hydrogen generated built up beneath the floor and that the gas/air mixture was ignited by sparks from a grinder used the following morning.

HSE is investigating the incident.

Comment: This short video gives a good account of foam concrete.

First principles suggest that where hyrogen can be generated from a product the user assessment should consider: (a) avoiding the risk by subsitution with non-hydrogen generating substances (b) avoiding confined spaces (c) effective ventilation and (d) avoidance of work producing ignition sources, unless the area has been certified gas free.

This article was posted on 18th November 2009 in ALL LATEST NEWS.
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