I can say from working over 30 years in the petrochemical industry that nitrogen gas asphyxiation is very real, dangerous and the individual never realizes what's happening.
Nitrogen gas is used extensively in the petrochemical industry because it does not support combustion. So nearly all purging is done with notrogen. However, it can be a silent killer and we were always extremely cautious with it.
I never understood why it wasn't used for this. There are many unfortunate cases where inspectors, maintenance workers and operators were overcome and lost their lives by simply "going to sleep".
I may not be fully on board with the death penalty but this is the most painless and humane way to accomplish thus.

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Posted by Bama Shadow

Member since Jan 2009

576 posts

Posted on 1/26/24 at 3:31 pm to Louisianalabguy

her son summed it up on Facebook when he said Mom finally has justice. I'm glad it's over for him finally.

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Posted by RCDfan1950

United States

Member since Feb 2007

35053 posts

Posted on 1/26/24 at 3:39 pm to Louisianalabguy

quote:
I can say from working over 30 years in the petrochemical industry that nitrogen gas asphyxiation is very real, dangerous and the individual never realizes what's happening.
Nitrogen gas is used extensively in the petrochemical industry because it does not support combustion. So nearly all purging is done with notrogen. However, it can be a silent killer and we were always extremely cautious with it.

It was always the H2S that we got drilled on Lg; I suppose because the purging/ventilation process was always done before access to the vessels. I guess they couldn't totally purge the H2S as it existed in much of the remaining product waste. I know we did suit up with Fresh Air apparatus when installing blinds.

I was fascinated with the whole refining process during my relatively short career out there. Big power...big danger. I almost bought the farm more than once. A close nit and smart crew really helps. My friends and family tell me that it is nothing like the old days out there now, re the crews. Incompetence and little pride or motivation to excel is the norm. CYA is the standing rule.