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ExxonMobil Chemical Plant (286), Baton Rouge

LDEQ Accident Report

Accident #150124
State Police #13-03429
Accident Date2013-08-04
Report Date 2013-08-09
Follow-up Date 2013-10-07
Follow-up: Yes

Pollutants Released

Pollutant Duration Point Source Greenhouse Gas Criteria Pollutant Ozone forming chemical Amount of Release
1,3-Butadiene6h 13mPiping from BELA-5NONOYES38.0 pounds

Accident Classified As: Reportable Quantity

Cause of Problem: Corrosion

On August 4 at approximately 8:47 AM, a leak of butadiene was detected ont he butadiene extraction unit (BELA-5) at the Baton Rouge Chemical Plant (BRCP). Follow-up response using a thermal camera revealed butadiene leaking from insulated piping. Immediately upon discovery of the leak, a controlled shutdown of the BELA-5 unit was initiated. Final investigation results indicate the leak was caused by external corrosion. The leaking pipe and insulation were replaced prior to unit startup.

Discharge Preventable - No

Since normal inspection program does not require 100% stripping of insulation, the impaired piping was not identified.

Notes/Remedial Actions

A controlled shutdown of the BELA-5 unit was executed upon discovery of the leak. As part of the shutdown, the piping was isolated and removed from service to stop the leak. To prevent recurrence, the leaking pipe and insulation were replaced prior to unit startup.