An unforeseen fire incident occurred during scheduled maintenance work at the mixed gas pipeline in SAIL/Bokaro Steel Plant on the morning of April 6, 2024. The pipeline, responsible for supplying gas to the Re-Heating Furnace of the Hot Strip Mill, was undergoing shutdown for maintenance purposes, devoid of any gas flow.
During the maintenance activity, a fire broke out due to the ignition of residual naphtha, sulphur, tar, and other highly inflammable substances present inside the pipeline. This led to the emission of substantial smoke, spreading throughout the pipeline.
Despite the absence of gas leakage, 23 workers, including some contract workers, stationed in the Re-Heating Furnace area, were exposed to the smoke. As a precautionary measure, all affected workers were admitted to Bokaro General Hospital for medical observation.
In a reassuring development, the medical bulletin issued from Bokaro General Hospital confirmed that the condition of all admitted workers is normal and stable, alleviating concerns regarding their health.
Immediately upon learning of the incident, B.K. Tiwari, Executive Director (Works) of Bokaro Steel Plant, along with other senior officials, visited the site to assess the situation. Utilizing a gas analyzer, an investigation was conducted, conclusively determining the absence of any gas leakage.
Further affirming the workers' well-being, Rajan Prasad, Executive Director (Personnel and Administration), personally visited the hospital to inquire about their health status, noting that all were in stable condition with normal vitals. Notably the District administration on the immediate directive of DC Vijaya Jadhav also intervened promptly, with senior officials including DDC Sandeep Kumar visited both the incident site and Bokaro General Hospital to oversee the situation .
Additionally COC BSL M.K Dhan Intimated that prompt action from on-site officials swiftly brought the situation under control. Fortunately, there were no reports of gas leaks or injuries among the personnel and all precautionary measures ensured on immediate basis . Mr Dhan added that authorities remain vigilant on-site, ensuring the safety and well-being of all employees. Further investigations will be conducted to assess any potential damage and prevent similar incidents in the future as corrective measures.
