Explosion rocks Institute agrochemicals plant
An explosion at the Bayer CropScience plant in Institute, West Virginia, rocked homes several miles away and resulted in a blaze that burned for several hours as firefighters battled it into the early morning. Emergency sirens could be heard from the plant across the river in Jefferson where many had gathered to observe. Billowing clouds of smoke hung over the skies of western Kanawha County as firefighters worked to contain the blaze. A five-member investigation team from the US Chemical Safety Board was dispatched to the scene immediately. CSB Chairman and CEO John Bresland, who served as the principal spokesperson, accompanied the team. One man died in the disaster and he has been officially identified. Another man was hurt in...

Adipec confirms further speakers
Adipec 2008, one of the largest international petroleum exhibitions and conferences in the world, has confirmed the addition of even more influential speakers to its already impressive schedule. The Adipec Conference, organised by the Society of Petroleum Engineers, will host more than 200 international speakers delivering keynote addresses and participating in executive panels, 26 technical presentations, poster sessions, 10 panel discussions and plenaries....

Safety standards deliver perception and reality
No one in industry can afford to ignore safety. Manufacturers face significant liabilities if they act in a socially irresponsible manner, including direct financial costs arising from any incident, legal costs and fines if they are found guilty of breaking the law, damages paid to injured parties and a damaged reputation that can have long-term consequences.

Hong Kong International airport gets refuelled
Airport equipment supplier, Cavotec Dabico, has won a deal to supply ten refuelling pit systems and related material to Hong Kong International airport. The deal includes ten fuel hydrants and three vault access pit assemblies. Deliveries are due to be made in September.

Dome pressure regulators are BAM approved
737LE dome pressure regulators from Witt have been granted BAM safety certification by the German Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM). The 737LE is used as a primary pressure regulator in pipeline systems to ensure a consistent pressure level regardless of the fluctuations in the flow of gas and is ideal for use where high flow rates up to 650m³/hr with low pressure drops are found.

Can you understand the X-Factor?
When it comes to sourcing electrical equipment for hazardous areas, end users and contractors have to ensure that apparatus not only meets the appropriate Health & Safety standards, but they also have to make the correct purchasing decisions, based on the cost of ownership of a product, not simply based on price of the apparatus alone.