This case study concerns the explosion of a container containing nitric acid. On December 2, 2011, a graduate student was going to perform an experiment requiring the use of nitric acid. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The students were working with nitric acid for the first time and no protocols had been established beforehand. Before the experiment, protection and management conventions were discussed informally among individuals in the laboratory, but no formal methods were discussed. Another waste container was installed for nitric acid. The analysis to be performed involved absorbing a material in nitric acid to isolate a polymer layer, then washing it with ethanol to remove the waste. The student assumed it was safe, washed the new waste container with nitric acid. After washing, he poured the used nitric acid into the waste container, then closed the container with the cap, after which he made sure to close the fume cupboard window. A few seconds after the student left, the trash can exploded. Fortunately, no one was in the nearby area. Two glass panels of the Sorbonne were extremely destroyed. Pieces of glass were scattered throughout the hood and surrounding area. The whole place was polluted with nitric acid. the explosion damaged the nitric acid tank and destroyed the compartment where the KOH solution was kept. EHS was contacted instantly to assess the circumstances and clean the laboratory which was emptied until it was ready for use again. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay The reason behind this explosion was the mixing of nitric acid with organic matter because the reaction that takes place between nitric acid and organic matter is very vigorous. While the strong reaction was still underway, the bottle was closed by the student, resulting in excessive gas formation and pressure which then lasted until the explosion. Ways to avoid such explosions or accidents may be: The presence of a laboratory instructor at all times while students are working in the laboratories. The protocols for the experiments to be carried out must be provided to students in advance. A prior discussion about the experience must be organized. by laboratory instructors with students. Students must read the risks and preventive measures of the experiment that is going to be carried out in the laboratories. After reading, they must implement them while carrying out the experiment. Nitric acid should be stored with other inorganic compounds and different A waste container should be used for this purpose. A lab coat, safety glasses and gloves must be worn at all times..