New Zealand: lessons learnt from cold store explosion

A recent coronial inquest into the explosion in April 2008 of a cold store in Tamahere, New Zealand, following a hydrocarbon refrigerant leak, has revealed a number of deficiencies. The incident, which caused the death of a fireman, was due to a pipe rupture provoking the leakage of some of the 400 kg of refrigerant that was used in a direct exchange cooling system. Icepak Coolstore’s gas detection and ventilation systems were inadequate for the type of refrigerant used (95% propane) which is heavier than air. The plant’s refrigeration system was reportedly prone to leaks, needed constant maintenance and experienced ongoing problems.
Meetings which took place with industry bodies such as IRHACE during the inquest focused on the adequacy of the existing regulatory regime and training opportunities and could lead to the introduction of a new licensing scheme for refrigeration and air-conditioning contractors.