Source: U.S. Chemical Safety Board
An independent federal board has launched an investigation into the fatal explosion at Horizon Biofuels.
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board, known as CSB, is looking into the July 29 explosion that killed 8-year-old Fayeah and 12-year-old Hayven died in the incident at Horizon Biofuels along with their dad, Dylan D. Danielson, 32, of Columbus, Neb.
“This horrific incident should never have happened. We want to prevent a terrible tragedy like from occurring again,” said CSB Chairperson Steve Owens
CSB has investigated a number of combustible dust incidents over the years, issuing numerous safety materials — videos, alerts, and a major hazard study — on the dangers of combustible dust, Thursday’s news release states.
The board, appointed by the president and subject to Senate confirmation, doesn’t issue citations or fines; rather it makes safety recommendations to companies, industry and labor organizations, as well regulatory agencies, like OSHA and the EPA.
Fires were still burning inside the ruins of the building as recently as Wednesday. Fences warn the public to stay away as firefighters keep a close eye on the still-smoldering debris.
The poor structural integrity of the burnt-out building also presents a safety hazard. Crews have to stay a minimum of 200 feet away.
What’s left of the former grain tower may not stay standing much longer, but for now, crews will keep dousing hot spots with water from a safe distance.
Nebraska Fire Marshal agency completed its initial investigation of the incident at the plant on July 31. OSHA is also conducting an investigation, which must be completed within six months by law.
The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy investigated an air quality complaint at Horizon Biofuels earlier this year. At that time, they did find wood dust beyond the property line.
Horizon Biofuels was also issued penalty fines by OSHA in 2012 for four “serious violations,” including a lack of training and communication on workplace hazards and machine maintenance. The company also failed to make sure wood dust didn’t pile up on and around the milling machine, according to reports from OSHA.
Horizon Biofuels manufactures wood pellets and animal bedding under the name Elkhorn Valley Animal Bedding. It is one of three commercial pellet plants in the state, with the capacity to produce 20,000 short tons of wood pellets, made from waste wood. The company has 10 employees, according to the Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership website.