At 2:45 p.m. on May 31, 2024, Employee #1, 39, was performing welding work on a diesel fuel tank. During the welding process, an explosion occurred, resulting in the employee’s fatal injuries. The explosion was caused by overpressure inside the tank, which caused metal parts to be ejected. Emergency services responded to the scene, but the employee was pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the explosion.
Far too many workers do not understand basic flammable liquids safety. Sure, Diesel fuel has a Flashpoint of 145F, as compared to gasoline’s FP of -50F. But what many do not recognize is that when both liquids are at their FP, diesel fuel is 3X’s as hazardous as gasoline. How can I make this statement? Simple…
Gasoline has an LEL of 1.5%
Diesel Fuel has an LEL of 0.5%