# EXPLODING VESSELS UNDER PRESSURE
> MSHA accident `220033640014` · 12/17/2003 · US Vanadium, LLC
## Details
- **Degree of injury:** DYS AWY FRM WRK & RESTRCTD ACT
- **Classification:** EXPLODING VESSELS UNDER PRESSURE
- **Accident type:** Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances
- **Occupation:** Maintenance man, Mechanic,  Repair/Serviceman, Boilermaker, Fueler, Tire tech, Field service tech
- **Activity:** Machine maintenance
- **Injury source:** CHEMICALS,CHEM COMP,NEC
- **Nature of injury:** BURN,CHEMICL-FUME,COMPOUN
- **Body part:** MULTIPLE PARTS (MORE THAN ONE MAJOR)
- **Days lost:** 1
- **Mine experience:** 9.69 years
## Operator
- **Controller:** Strategic Minerals Corp (Stratcor)
- **Operator:** US Vanadium, LLC
- **Mine:** [0300479](https://api.ai-analytics.org/mine/0300479)
## Narrative

A PLANT MECHANIC WAS REMOVING A 3/4"" CAP OFF OF AN AMMONIA LINE TO PURGE THE SYSTEM. HE SHUT OFF THE MAIN VALVE TO THE TANK BUT NEGLECTED TO BLEED THE PRESSURE OFF THE LINE BEFORE REMOVING THE CAP. THE CAP BLEW OFF ENGULFING HIM IN A VAPOR CLOUD OF AMMONIA. THIS RESULTED IN MINOR BURNS TO HIS RIGHT HAND AND CHEEK AND INHALATION INJURIES.

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*Source: [MSHA Open Government Data](https://arlweb.msha.gov/OpenGovernmentData/) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*