Macondo Blowout and Explosion

Accident Description

Accident: Macondo Blowout and Explosion

Location: Location: Offshore

Accident Occurred On: 20 April 2010 | Final Report Released On: 20 April 2016

Accident Type: Oil and Refining - Fire and Explosion

Investigation Status: The CSB's investigation was unanimously approved by the board.

On April 20, 2010, a sudden explosion and fire occurred on the oil rig. The accident resulted in the deaths of 11 workers and caused a massive, ongoing oil spill into the Gulf of Mexico. The rig was located approximately 50 miles southeast of Venice, Louisiana, and had a 126-member crew onboard.

Learn more about the CSB's Macondo Blowout and Explosion investigation here: https://www.csb.gov/macondo-blowout-and-explosion/

BP America (Texas City) Refinery Explosion Investigation

Accident Description

Accident: BP America (Texas City) Refinery Explosion

Location: Location: Texas City, TX

Accident Occurred On: 23 March 2005 | Final Report Released On: 20 March 2007

Accident Type: Oil and Refining - Fire and Explosion

Investigation Status: The Board approved its final report by a vote of 5-0 at a public meeting in Texas City on March 20, 2007.

At approximately 1:20 p.m. on March 23, 2005, a series of explosions occurred at the BP Texas City refinery during the restarting of a hydrocarbon isomerization unit. Fifteen workers were killed and 180 others were injured. Many of the victims were in or around work trailers located near an atmospheric vent stack. The explosions occurred when a distillation tower flooded with hydrocarbons and was overpressurized, causing a geyser-like release from the vent stack.

Learn more about the CSB's BP Texas City investigation here: https://www.csb.gov/bp-america-texas-city-refinery-explosion/