Dhaka University of Engineering & Technology, Gazipur

Department of Chemical Engineering

Presentation Title: BP Texas Explosion

An Analysis of the Incident

Presenters,
Md. Liton Mia - 198003
Md. Arifuzzamann - 198013
Md. Rifat Khandaker - 198020
Agenda

Introduction to BP Texas Explosion

Causes of the Explosion

Agenda Consequences and Impact

Preventive Measures

Conclusion
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Introduction to BP Texas Explosion

On March 23, 2005, the BP Texas City

refinery’s isomerization unit started with
several explosions and a fire. During ISOM
take off, a raffinate splitter tower was
overfilled. The pressure relief devices
opened, releasing flammable liquid from
the blowdown stack without a flare. After
contact with an ignition source, probably a
vehicle engine, heavier-than-air
hydrocarbon fumes exploded.

Fig-01: BP Texas City Oil Refinery

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Causes of BP Texas Explosion

Personnel
Errors

auses Management
Weakness

Insufficient
Process
Safety
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Personnel Errors (PE)

Logbook
Miss Entry

Key
Safety Late
Requireme Arrival
nts
PE

Startup not Startup

Reviewed Procedure
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Management Weaknesses (MW)

Minor Major

Malfunctioning
Lack of human fati instrumentation an
gue- d alarms
prevention policy Poorly designed c
omputerized
Ineffective respon control system
serious safety prob se to
lems and Lack of human fati
event gue-
Ineffective superv prevention policy
isory
oversight Management cut th
e budget

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Insufficient Process Safety (IPS)

Error in level indicator,

and alarms system
No flare or blow down
drum
No automatic safety
shutdown
Errors in alarms and

IPS
instruments
The blocked valve in the
reflux tank was closed
Inadequate OSHA
inspections

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Preventing Measures (PM)

Awareness

Risk Mitigation

PM Investment in Safety

Improve Equipment Design

Well Maintenance

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 Conclusions

This investigation identified systemic deficiencies, such as inadequate maintenance, safety, and
communication, as the root causes of the tragedy.

To prevent such tragedies, awareness, investment in safety infrastructure, and ongoing

improvements are essential. The BP Texas City accident serves as a reminder that prioritizing
industrial safety is essential to safeguard workers, communities, and the environment.

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Questions

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