The objective of this project was to carry out an accident investigation to determine the causes of the accident and suggest improvements to prevent the reoccurrence of an accident which occurred during the start up of a pH analyzer in a petrochemical plant in Singapore.  The project was conducted by a Diploma in Chemical Engineering student in a petrochemical complex on Jurong Island.

The accident investigation was split into four simple steps: fact-finding, interview, checking of documents and implementation of corrective measures.  A study on the safety system of the company was also carried out through surveys and results were obtained from the Operation Integrity Management System for analysis. From the investigation, it was found that the pH system was over-pressurised which resulted in the rupture of the acrylic tube. The data had also proven that the accident was the result of human communication problems, carelessness and system design deficiency.

To prevent the reoccurrence of such accidents, the following corrective measures were implemented:

• System was modified to prevent reoccurrence of over-pressurisation of the pH analyzer
• Talks and training were conducted for concerned staff to emphasise the importance of compliance to proper work procedures