One person was killed and another was seriously injured as a result of an accident burst happened in Port of Barcelona this morning. The reason, as it turned out soon after, was deflagration of methyl acetate tanka substance used in the manufacture of varnishes, paint removers and pharmaceuticals. It is similar to acetone, used as nail polish remover, although it is a different chemical compound.
In particular, the explosion occurred in a tank belonging to Port Terminals Company (TEPSA)located in Energy dock. This company is involved in the receipt, storage and handling of bulk liquid products, especially chemical products such as methyl acetate, and apparently its workers performed welding work maintenance when everything happened.
The accident occurred in the port of Barcelona. shortly after 10 a.m.. Firefighters were called at 10:40 and rushed there immediately. 11 donations. Having analyzed the situation, A. emergency plan and employees of nearby companies were taken into custody as a preventive measure. But why were these measures taken? The key is the dangers of methyl acetate.
All the risks of methyl acetate
Methyl acetate is a highly flammable product, as was noted after the incident in the port of Barcelona. However, he is also known for his toxicity. It is considered toxic to both inhalation like skin contact. Therefore, after an explosion like the one that occurred this morning, it is necessary to prevent people nearby from inhaling smoke from the explosion.
In milder cases, there may only be irritation of the throat, eyes and nose, along with a headache, a slight cough and, if the skin is open, a rash. However, if the concentration of methyl acetate in the environment is very high and too much of it is inhaled, more severe symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or dangerous fluid buildup (edema) in the lungs.
At the moment, it is excluded that there is a risk to the population, except for workers of enterprises located near the explosion. It seems that the situation was contained in time.
What happened in the port of Barcelona?
It is possible that the employees of the affected company did not comply with all the necessary safety measures or some of them failed. Methyl acetate is highly flammable. Therefore, if welding work is to be carried out, it is important to do it in such a way that no spark can enter the tank in which this substance is located.
An investigation has been launched to find out what exactly happened and how the tank came into being.
It is now known that the result was an explosion. That is, an explosion in which the flame propagates slower than the speed of sound. This directly affected two people: the deceased and the one who remains in serious condition in hospital. Hospital Val d’Hebron. It is known that three people were also injured, but, fortunately, their condition is much better.
At this time, the area remains cordoned off and an emergency plan is being developed. It is important to avoid approaching the port of Barcelona unless necessary. In such situations, curious people may be harmed if they inhale toxic gases.
Source: Hiper Textual
