Phillips disaster of 1989

The initial explosion was found to have resulted from a release of extremely flammable process gasses used to produce high-density polyethylene, a plastic used for various consumer food container products.

The HCC produced approximately 15×10^9 lb (6.8×10^6 t) per year of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a plastic material used to make milk bottles and other containers.

[1] The accident resulted from a release of extremely flammable process gases that occurred during regular maintenance operations on one of the plant's polyethylene reactors.

During routine maintenance, isolation valves were closed and compressed air hoses that actuated them physically disconnected as a safety measure.

The two polyethylene production plants nearest the source of the blast were destroyed, and in the HCC administration building nearly 0.5 mile away, windows were shattered and bricks ripped out.

[2] The initial response was provided by the Phillips Petroleum Company fire brigade which was soon joined by members of the Channel Industries Mutual Aid association (CIMA).

The Phillips Petroleum Company requested, and the FAA approved and implemented, a one-mile no-fly zone around the plant to prevent engine vibration and/or helicopter rotor downwash from dislodging any of the wreckage.

[2] A granite memorial at 29°43′59.2″N 95°10′57.1″W / 29.733111°N 95.182528°W / 29.733111; -95.182528 near 924 Jefferson Road, Pasadena, Texas was dedicated on the first anniversary of the disaster, and was declared by company officials to be open to the general public at all times.