Description of Driving Event:
On 1-28-93, during normal testing in the Model Preparation Area (MPA) of the 16' Transonic tunnel, oil from a turboprop simulator model was vented into the atmosphere. The vented oil was MIL-7808-H, the same type as used in past model tests. The turboprop simulators have no oil scavenging system, therefore, it is standard practice to vent oil from the simulators. When preparing to clean instrumentation fouled with the vented oil, it was determined that MIL-7808-H oil contains Tricresylphosphate, a hazardous substance absorbable through the skin and capable of causing paralysis. After LaRC Environmental Health Personnel were contacted to determine proper protective measures, the MPA room was cleaned of all residual oil. There were no personnel injuries resulting from this incident.
Lesson(s) Learned:
- Because something has always been done that way doesn't necessarily mean that it is being done properly.
- When necessary documentation exists, in this case an MSDS, to determine whether or not a product contains hazardous substances, use it.
Recommendation(s):
In order to prevent recurrences of potential exposure to MIL-7808-H, a non-hazardous oil will be used in all similar models for all future tests.
Evidence of Recurrence Control Effectiveness:
A non-hazardous oil is now being used in testing.
Documents Related to Lesson:
N/A
Mission Directorate(s):
N/A
Additional Key Phrase(s):
- Hazardous/Toxic Waste/Materials
- Occupational Health
- Test Facility
Additional Info:
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