SAFETY TEST OF FLARE EXTRUSION FACILITY

A recent accident in the flare extrusion facility fatally burned the press operator. During restoration of the facility, several additional safety features were incorporated. Tangible proof that the changes were adequate was desired. Permission to conduct a controlled burn test, with the press loaded so as to simulate a point in the extrusion cycle at which an accidental ignition might occur, was requested and granted. The test was considered to be successful. Confidence in operator safety has increased. Similar tests on other operations would greatly improve personnel safety in pyrotechnics.