CSB Probes Hydrogen Sulfide Deaths at West Virginia Facility

Washington — The Chemical Safety Board is investigating a fatal April incident involving hydrogen sulfide at Ames Goldsmith Corp.’s Catalyst Refiners Inc. facility in Institute, WV, where two workers died and four others sustained serious injuries.

Incident Sequence

A chemical reaction produced highly toxic vapors as chemicals were transferred into a wastewater receiving tank during decommissioning operations. A worker and supervisor lost consciousness after inhaling the vapors. Two additional workers who entered the area to assist were overcome by tank vapors and died. Emergency responders detected hydrogen sulfide at the site.

Key Deficiencies Identified

Investigators determined that the facility lacked a written procedure for disposal of certain chemicals through its wastewater treatment system. Four full-face respirators were present onsite, but none had filters to protect against hydrogen sulfide and other hazardous gases. Catalyst Refiners did not provide or require personal gas monitors. Workers reported that respirator use was not required after the facility shifted from production to decommissioning.

Ongoing Investigation

According to Safety+Health Magazine, CSB Chair Steve Owens stated that the agency remains concerned about the absence of required respirators and personal gas monitors during decommissioning. The board stressed that understanding chemical hazards, incompatibilities and disposal procedures is critical to safe operation. Complete findings and any recommendations will appear in the final investigation report.

According to Safety+Health Magazine, the update focuses on hazard recognition during facility decommissioning. The Chemical Safety Board continues to examine the events at the Institute, WV location.