Investigation Report
Nitrogen Cylinder Explosion During Refilling aboard FPSO
04-28-2025 1022 G30369 WR 249 Injury, Explosion, Incident > $25k
- BSEE
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- ExplosionLine of firePressure systems
- Fluid transferHelicopter operations
- Gas cylinderPumpsStorage tanksValve
- Competence and trainingJob safety analysisOperating and work proceduresPressure relief
- Upstream oil and gas
- Vessel
Summary
BSEE investigates a nitrogen cylinder explosion during refilling aboard the BW Pioneer FPSO. Misidentification of the cylinder’s pressure rating and an incorrectly rated relief device resulted in over-pressurisation. The report examines booster pumping, metallurgical failure analysis, inadequate training and procedures, equipment damage and injuries to a nearby worker during helicopter refuelling.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Fluid transfer; fluid loading; fluid offloading.
Classifications: Helicopter operations; offshore aviation; rotary-wing operations.
Classifications: Gas cylinder; compressed gas bottle; gas cylinders.
Classifications: Pumps.
Classifications: Storage tanks; atmospheric tanks.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Job safety analysis; JSA; job hazard analysis; JHA.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Pressure relief; overpressure protection.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.