BHO Explosions Caused by Propane/Butane Canisters

BHO explosions, which occur during the manufacturing of butane hash oil, are occurring frequently in states with legalized cannabis. BHO involves forcing butane through filtered tube –often PVC pipe or specially made glass tubes sold for the purpose of producing butane hash oil. The liquid is captured in a container and heated, in order to “burn off” the butane.

During this process, butane vapors escape and are present in explosive levels. Unbeknownst to most consumers, the butane vapors are highly explosive, and making butane hash oil creates a substantial risk of injury because of the presence of flammable vapors. Once the vapors hit any flame–such as a spark, water heater pilot, furnace, or cigarette—a large explosion will occur.

Butane canisters–with names like “Vector” and “Colibri” fail to carry any warning about the dangers and hazards of using the unodorized butane (which is often a mix of butane, propane, and other explosive gases) for BHO production despite laws in place requiring product manufacturers to affix adequate warnings on their products. Manufacturers of products which cause bho explosions should be held accountable for their violation of state failure to warn laws.