A worker was using an oxygen-acetylene torch to cut off the top of a 45-gallon metal drum. The worker thought the motor
oil drum was empty, clean, and safe to cut. When the torch flame pierced the drum, it exploded. The torch operator, who
was not wearing flame-resistant clothing, received severe burns to his legs, arms, stomach, and face. A second worker
received a burn to his left arm.
An investigation found that the drum had not been properly cleaned before it was cut. The torch flame ignited the
residual contents in the drum, causing an explosion.
Safe work practices:
- Use metal drums with removable
lids for storing or disposing
of material.
- Issue a company policy
that prohibits the
cutting of metal drums.
- If it is necessary to cut
metal drums, provide
a written safe work
procedure that includes
the effective cleaning and
neutralizing of contents
before cutting.
- Ensure that workers are
instructed and trained in safe
work procedures and that they
wear flame-resistant clothing.
