Hot Oil Explodes From Kettle

A worker in a soap manufacturing plant was covered in hot oil which exploded from a kettle. He died later of burns and infection.

The hot oil was part of a bleaching operation.

The conclusion of a coroner’s jury investigating this death indicated poor workplace design and flaws in engineering the manufacturing process as the cause.

Improved safety communication was also recommended, including signs showing the way to emergency equipment such as safety showers, the first aid room, eye wash station and escape routes. There should be warnings to visitors and employees about restricted areas and limited access to areas such as the bleach room. All valves and electrical switches and other controls should be clearly labeled.