NASA ARC Memo: Accident in Building N-203

Subject: July 22, 2014 Accident in Building N-203

From: Centerwide Announcement

Date: July 22, 2014

Message from the Center Director’s Office

July 22, 2014 Accident in Building N-203

At 9:40 a.m. this morning an explosion occurred in the basement of N- 203. According to Ames security personnel, two contractor technicians, working on a boiler in the basement had shut off the gas line and when they went to relight it, the boiler exploded. The building was immediately evacuated, in accordance with the Building Emergency Action Plan. The two employees were treated on the scene by emergency medical personnel and were referred for further treatment.

Employees were able to enter N-203 within an hour of the incident after the boiler systems were put into a safe configuration. A portion of the building is closed off for an interim response team investigation. A Mishap Investigation Board, led by the Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate (Code Q) will be formed. The purpose of the mishap investigation is to determine the cause(s) of today’s accident and implement effective corrective actions to prevent recurrence of similar mishaps.

Ensuring the health and safety of all employees is the top priority at NASA Ames. If you have any questions about this centerwide, contact: mailto:Mike.liu@nasa.gov

S. Pete Worden

Center Director