Control
Atmospheric Gas Testing
Testing oxygen, flammability and toxic gases to establish atmospheric safety.
Newest 100 Documents
All 112 in search- 202527 Oct
Japan Transport Safety Board: two confined space fatalities
An IMCA flash summarises a Japanese bulk-carrier incident in which two stevedores collapsed during unloading; one died and one was seriously injured. Low oxygen and elevated carbon dioxide were likely linked to palm kernel shell fermentation. It highlights absent atmospheric testing, inadequate work controls and recommendations for training and cargo risk profiling.
- 202529 Apr
Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) detected onboard vessel
A vessel-wide odour prompted crew to investigate with gas detectors but without respiratory protection. Hydrogen sulphide reached a measured 170 ppm in the Grease Trap room, entering through a dry drain trap. The flash examines sewage-system maintenance, incomplete procedures and risk assessment, and subsequent revisions to tank-flushing, drain-trap and emergency arrangements.
- 2025Apr
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 9 (April 2025)
This superyacht incident digest examines a post-dry-dock fire, unsuitable crew accommodation during repairs, drug use, inadequate provision for working aloft, a falling crane hook, fatigued anchoring and unrecognised enclosed spaces. Commentary addresses safety culture, equipment readiness, familiarisation, design feedback and atmospheric testing.
- 202520 Mar
Fatal accident on board bulk carrier Berge Mawson with loss of 3 lives
MAIB investigates three stevedore deaths in Berge Mawson’s coal cargo hold access space. The report considers a fatal atmospheric mechanism highly likely, while noting that medical causes were unconfirmed. It examines pre-entry gas testing, permits, access security, warning comprehension, training and rescue arrangements during cargo operations.
- 20244 Sep
BSEE Safety Alert 488 - Flash Fires During Welding Operations
A flash fire and blast during nozzle tack welding on a fuel gas scrubber propelled a tied-off welder against a rail without injury. Subsequent flammability readings ranged from 0 to 70% LEL. BSEE recommends considering improved atmospheric checks, ventilation, hot-work protocols, supervision, training and protective equipment.
- 202327 Nov
Case study: Confined space fatalities due to hydrogen sulphide
Three people died during gas sampling in a jack-up rig’s spud can; a standby worker survived exposure outside the opening. The summary links circumstantial evidence to hydrogen sulphide inhalation and examines unsuitable SCUBA equipment, restricted ventilation, unprotected rescue and contractor assurance. Proposed training covers monitoring, correct breathing apparatus and emergency response.
- 202327 Nov
Case study: Saturation diver fatality due to hydrogen sulphide
This safety flash summarises a historical saturation-diving fatality during inspection of a leaking sour-crude pipeline in the Bombay High oilfield. Hydrogen sulphide in the bell caused collapse; the diver subsequently drowned. It discusses possible gas-entry routes, absent gas detection, bell-to-bell rescue and the potential use of ROVs for surveys.
- 202322 May
Unexpected H2S Detection at Offshore Facilities
This alert summarises unexpected hydrogen sulphide detections at offshore facilities producing from fields classified as H2S absent. Cases involve production equipment, cargo tanks, defoamer transfer and ballast-tank cleaning. BSEE recommends considering atmospheric testing, stagnant-tank inspections, crew drills, routine sampling and risk assessments addressing bacterial generation of the gas.
- 202327 Apr
Carbon monoxide poisoning on board the sports cruiser Emma Louise with loss of 2 lives
Investigates two fatal carbon monoxide poisonings aboard Emma Louise at Port Hamble Marina. Gas measurements and optical gas imaging indicated that engine exhaust likely entered the poorly ventilated covered cockpit via a towable ski ring at the transom. The report discusses marine carbon monoxide alarms, ventilation and awareness among recreational boat users.
- 2023Apr
High concentration of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in cargo and slop tanks
This HSE safety notice addresses hydrogen sulphide in FPSO and FSU cargo and slop tank ullage spaces, including concentrations beyond standard portable instruments’ measuring limits. It discusses exposure during monitoring and releases, corrosion risks, suitable gas monitoring, revised risk assessments, integrity inspection and crew training.
- 202316 Feb
Fluid Transfer Transport
Hazard alert addressing toxic and flammable vapours, hydrogen sulphide and oxygen displacement during vacuum loading and offloading of produced fluids. It assigns responsibilities to facilities, hauling companies and drivers, covering atmospheric monitoring, training, conductive hoses, bonding and grounding, safe vent discharge and prevention of diesel-engine runaway.
- 2023
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 3 (Summer 2023)
Superyacht incident reports examine missing atmospheric testing equipment, tender lifting-eyebolt failure, an unsafe hull inspection dive, a fall following release of a securing shackle, and an anchoring near miss. Commentary addresses enclosed-space entry, lifting-point specifications, risk assessment, supervision, authority gradients and communication during anchor handling.
- 202213 Dec
Fires During Decommissioning Cause Injuries
A contractor suffered facial burns when trapped hydrocarbons ignited during torch cutting of pipework being decommissioned. Earlier seawater flushing and draining had not removed the hydrocarbons. The alert identifies shortcomings in hazard analysis, planning and permitting, and recommends job-specific procedures, atmospheric verification, isolation safeguards and pre-job communication.
- 20221 Nov
BSEE: Poor preparation prior to hot work leads to fires
This safety flash summarises three BSEE hot-work fires involving falling sparks, flammable condensate, a leaking gas riser and combustible building surfaces. Recommendations address spark shielding, sustained fire watches, extinguishers, continuous gas monitoring, detector checks, inerting nearby containers, and reviewing hot-work permits and job safety analyses.
- 202228 Sep
Sunoco Logistics Partners Flash Fire
Investigation of a flash fire and explosion during flange welding at Sunoco’s Nederland terminal, injuring seven contractors. The report examines residual crude oil, pipe isolation tools, atmospheric testing, permits and procedure implementation. It discusses similar incidents and stresses ensuring a non-flammable internal atmosphere before hot work; the specific causal scenario remains unresolved.
- 2022Aug
What’s an Acceptable LEL Detector Reading? — Process Safety Beacon, August 2022
This bulletin examines a fatal tank explosion during emptying by vacuum truck, where work continued after a reading of 67% of the lower explosive limit. It explains vapour accumulation and sludge hazards, emphasising calibrated gas testing, compliance with testing limits, bonding and grounding, and recognised tank-cleaning practices.
- 202226 Jul
Poor Preparation Prior to Hot Work Leads to Fires
Three hot-work fires illustrate hazards from flammable vapours at a water skimmer, a leaking gas riser and combustible building surfaces. The alert recommends considering spark shielding, drain sealing, inerting, permits, job safety analysis and continuous gas monitoring, alongside appropriately positioned fire watches and accessible extinguishers.
- 202125 Nov
Hydrogen sulphide detected in a bilge tank
A vessel crew stopped bilge-water transfer after noticing a rotten-egg smell; a multi-gas meter detected 453 ppm hydrogen sulphide at the vent. The flash describes accumulated tank residue, delayed specialist cleaning, gas routing away from accommodation, continuous monitoring and respiratory protection, alongside lessons on machinery-space cleaning practices.
- 202114 Apr
Carbon monoxide poisoning on motor cruiser Diversion with loss of 2 lives
This investigation examines two fatal carbon monoxide poisonings aboard Diversion at York. Exhaust leaked from an incompatible, non-marine cabin heater silencer and pipe connection, entering circulating air. Restricted ventilation and the absence of an alarm are analysed alongside installation checks, servicing and heater testing.
- 202010 Dec
Entry to enclosed space on fishing vessel Sunbeam with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal tank entry aboard Sunbeam in Fraserburgh. Leaking refrigerant from corroded evaporator tubes displaced air in a refrigerated salt water tank. The report examines inadequate repairs, non-gastight isolation valves, normalised unsafe entry, absent atmospheric precautions, rescue arrangements and gaps in machinery survey oversight.
- 202010 Sep
Failure to detect dangerous gas/vapour due to incorrect specification of sample tube
This safety alert examines misleading readings from pumped gas detectors caused by vapour adsorption inside unsuitable sampling tubes. A fatal explosion followed hot work based on a false reading. It recommends checking detector–tube combinations with the substance of interest where practicable and assessing sampling-system response times.
- 2020Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2020
A collection of lessons from accidents involving merchant vessels, fishing boats and recreational craft. Cases examine distracted navigation, grounding, machinery fires, hazardous tank atmospheres, cargo handling and overboard emergencies. Discussions cover passage planning, maintenance, atmospheric testing, lifejacket performance and emergency drills, retaining uncertainty where accident causes remain unresolved.
- 202010 Jan
Crew member fainted after working in water ballast tank
A crew member collapsed after removing sediment and rust from a ship’s water ballast tank. Treatment addressed suspected hydrogen sulphide poisoning, but subsequent atmospheric tests found no harmful gases. The flash identifies shortcomings in hazard awareness and risk assessment, recommending space-specific assessment and effective briefings despite prior ventilation and personal monitoring.
- 201924 Sep
Safety Alert 366 - Dangerous Levels Of H2S Detected At Offshore Facilities
BSEE describes three hydrogen sulphide releases during offshore pipeline flushing and well abandonment, including incidents at non-sour facilities. One worker experienced dizziness and nausea. The alert recommends considering gas monitoring, detector calibration and bump testing, job safety analysis, rescue preparedness and gas-buster safeguards during potentially hazardous operations.
- 201925 Jun
DuPont La Porte Facility Toxic Chemical Release
Investigation of a fatal methyl mercaptan release at DuPont’s La Porte insecticide unit. Four workers died inside the manufacturing building. The report examines hydrate-blocked pipework, drain valves, inadequate safeguards, alarm communication and emergency response, alongside management of change, audit effectiveness, process safety culture and misleading reliance on occupational injury metrics.
- 201918 Jun
High potential near miss: Person found unconscious in confined space
A commissioning engineer entered a gas valve unit during nitrogen pressure testing and collapsed. Entry proceeded without a confined-space permit, atmospheric test results or safety watch. Following rescue and CPR, the engineer recovered fully. The flash emphasises authorised entry, atmosphere testing, a safety watch, rescue planning and discussion with a supervisor.
- 201928 Jan
Confined space entry: Person overcome by fumes and rendered unconscious
A vessel crew member cleaning a faulty sewage-tank sensor was overcome by hydrogen sulphide, lost consciousness and fell from a fixed rack to the deck. The flash identifies failures in risk assessment, work authorisation, atmospheric checks and maintenance procedures, and reinforces safe systems of work and awareness of gas hazards.
- 201928 Jan
Person felt unwell while working in confined space
A worker became dizzy and weak while cleaning a mud tank and was rescued by the tank watchman. The flash identifies deficiencies in permits, atmospheric checks, gas detector use, isolation and rescue arrangements. It highlights missing mud hazard information and checks of lockout kits, detectors and rescue equipment.
- 20183 Aug
Near miss: onboard O₂ bottle leaked into diving bell
A diving bell near miss involved oxygen supply valves left partly open during pre-dive checks, emptying a bottle into the bell. Distraction, delayed topside readings and distrust of an unreliable analyser were identified. The run was aborted; subsequent measures included atmosphere flushing, additional valve checks, analysers and sourcing buffer tanks.
- 201824 Apr
Packaging Corporation of America Hot Work Explosion
Investigation of a foul condensate tank explosion at PCA’s DeRidder mill that killed three contractors and injured seven. Air ingress created an explosive atmosphere; nearby hot work was the probable ignition source. The report examines turpentine recovery, outage conditions, permit limitations, process safety boundaries and explosion safeguards, with comparisons to earlier incidents.
- 201731 May
Mobile Engine Hazard Alert
This hazard alert addresses ignition of flammable vapours by mobile engines and auxiliary motors during oil and gas operations. It outlines fire risk assessment, equipment positioning, atmospheric monitoring and access controls, and suggests protective engine systems. Workers are instructed to evacuate immediately when an engine over-revs or runs away.
- 201628 Sep
Hot Work Hazard Alert
This hazard alert addresses fire, explosion and toxic exposure during hot work on oilfield tanks and equipment containing hydrocarbon residues. It warns against treating empty equipment as safe and sets out employer and worker responsibilities for permits, atmospheric monitoring, tank cleaning, ignition control, protective equipment and hazard training.
- 20167 Jan
High potential near-miss: Poor O₂ content in supplied air – diver temporarily lost consciousness
A diver briefly lost consciousness on a diving support vessel after switching to a breathing-air quad containing around 3% oxygen. Tenders removed his helmet and he recovered. The flash examines supplied-gas quality assurance, an oxygen analyser that failed to alarm, and proposed pre-dive checklist changes to clear residual gas before introducing a new supply.
- 2016
Health and Safety Risks for Workers Involved in Manual Tank Gauging and Sampling at Oil and Gas Extraction Sites
Joint NIOSH–OSHA alert examines toxic hydrocarbon exposure, oxygen depletion and ignition hazards during manual gauging and sampling of production and flowback tanks. It reviews nine fatalities and field exposure measurements, explains filtering respirator limitations, and recommends closed sampling, atmospheric monitoring, exposure assessment, training and emergency arrangements.
- 20152 Oct
Confined space fatality in shipyard
A rope access worker died after entering a riser guide tube to retrieve foam at a fabrication site. The flash identifies missing job safety analysis, pre-entry gas testing, rescue equipment and written procedures. Recommendations include eliminating entry, approving JSA before permits, detector training and mechanical extraction arrangements.
- 201528 Aug
Confined space entry fatalities
This safety flash describes five deaths following entry into a compartment on a pontoon beached for repairs. Air quality was not checked before the initial entry. Successive rescue entrants also became unconscious or succumbed; only one of the six entrants survived. The account highlights uncontrolled confined-space entry.
- 2015Apr
Safe work in confined spaces
This Approved Code of Practice explains confined-space regulatory duties, identification of specified risks and avoidance of entry. It addresses competent risk assessment, written safe systems, atmospheric testing, ventilation and isolation, alongside respiratory equipment, access design, rescue arrangements, equipment maintenance and role-specific training.
- 201515 Jan
Millard Refrigerated Services Ammonia Release
This safety bulletin examines an ammonia release at Millard’s refrigerated export facility. It discusses hydraulic shock likely associated with omitted defrost bleeding, shared evaporator valve controls and continued refrigerant supply to ruptured pipework. Prevention lessons address individual valve groups, protected controls and emergency shutdown when releases cannot be promptly isolated.
- 2013Oct
Release of phosphine gas during discharge of fumigated maize cargo from general cargo vessel Arklow Meadow
MAIB investigates a phosphine release during maize discharge from Arklow Meadow at Warrenpoint. Aluminium phosphide retainers remained active, probably because of tight packaging and relatively low hold humidity. The report examines misleading hold-top gas readings, residue handling, inadequate procedures and emergency planning, and fumigator qualification assurance.
- 20125 Nov
Risk of carbon monoxide release during the storage of wood pellets
This safety alert describes fatal carbon monoxide poisoning associated with wood pellet storage, including domestic cases. It explains factors affecting gas production and oxygen depletion in enclosed stores. Suggested precautions cover competent installation and servicing, restricted entry, atmospheric checks, ventilation, risk assessment and warning information.
- 2012Jun
Carbon monoxide poisoning from portable petrol pump on pair trawler/guard ship Starlight Rays with loss of 1 life
Investigates fatal carbon monoxide poisoning aboard Starlight Rays during use of a portable petrol-driven salvage pump in an unventilated fish hold. Examines failure to prime, exhaust accumulation, further crew exposure during rescue, breathing-apparatus limitations, atmospheric testing and ventilation, alongside shortcomings in risk assessment and equipment assurance.
- 201219 Apr
E. I. DuPont De Nemours Co. Fatal Hotwork Explosion
Investigation of a fatal hot-work explosion at DuPont’s Buffalo facility during repairs to slurry-tank agitator supports. Vinyl fluoride vapour reached the tank through interconnected pipework. The report examines missing isolation, omitted internal atmospheric testing, inadequate process knowledge in permit review and undocumented process changes, with comparisons to earlier tank-welding incidents.
- 201229 Feb
Major injury suffered in confined space incident
A meter reader sustained severe brain damage after entering a water meter chamber without testing its atmosphere, later measured at six percent oxygen. A colleague attempted rescue but had to withdraw because he could not breathe. The flash stresses atmospheric checks and appropriate confined-space entry and rescue procedures.
- 201225 Jan
H₂S leak umbilical laying
A hydrogen sulphide leak during umbilical laying prompted work stoppage and area isolation after deck personnel noticed a rotten-egg smell. Specialist air testing preceded resumption, with no contamination or illness reported. The flash identifies missing awareness and recommends testing before and during deployment, and halting operations if leaks occur.
- 20125 Jan
Hoeganaes Corporation Fatal Flash Fires
This case study investigates three incidents involving combustible iron dust and hydrogen at Hoeganaes in Gallatin, Tennessee. It examines dust testing, accumulation and collection failures, hydrogen piping integrity, electrical classification and flame-resistant clothing. Recommendations address combustible dust standards, plant-specific training, gas-system maintenance and near-miss investigation.
- 201114 Jul
Confined space – multiple fatalities
An onshore oil-well incident involved four workers collapsing after entering a water tank containing water mixed with nitrogen, including attempted rescuers. Three subsequently died. The flash identifies failures in procedural compliance, confined-space permitting, pre-entry multi-gas testing, appropriate protective equipment and rescue planning.
- 20114 Jul
Confined space – multiple fatalities
A bosun fell into a vessel’s slop tank for unknown reasons. Two colleagues entered to help, and all three became unconscious. Subsequent rescue used ventilation, atmospheric testing and breathing apparatus. The bosun died; both colleagues recovered after hospitalisation. Investigation noted impulsive rescue entries and inadequate understanding of hydrogen sulphide accumulation.
- 2011May
Flammable material release inside building causes explosion! — Process Safety Beacon, May 2011
A bulletin examines a fatal explosion at a North Carolina meat-processing plant following intermittent indoor release of natural gas during pipe purging. It explains flammable atmosphere accumulation and recommends safe discharge locations, collection and treatment where possible, plant purging procedures, hazard analysis when indoor purging is unavoidable, and flammable gas monitoring.
- 2011Mar
OCE11 - Breaking containment – non-hydrocarbon lines
This offshore guidance addresses chemical exposure when opening non-hydrocarbon lines. It describes isolation verification using pressure build-up checks, draining, purging, safe venting and conditional gas testing. It also covers ventilation, personal gas monitors, protective clothing and gloves, joint reinstatement checks, spill containment, decontamination, maintenance and worker training.
- 2011Mar
OCE12 - Breaking containment – hydrocarbon lines
This offshore COSHH information sheet describes exposure controls for opening hydrocarbon lines. It covers isolation verification, draining, purging, safe venting and gas testing, alongside benzene monitoring, respiratory protection and chemical-resistant clothing. Joint management, spill containment, personal decontamination, equipment maintenance and worker training are also addressed.
- 2011Mar
OCE13 - Breaking containment – process cleaning operations
Guidance for internal cleaning of offshore process plant addresses exposure to hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulphide, mercury and naturally occurring radioactive material. It describes isolation verification, draining, purging, gas testing, respiratory protection and exposure monitoring, alongside decontamination, waste handling, health surveillance and worker training.
- 2011Mar
OCE14 - Breaking containment – mercury
Information sheet addressing mercury exposure when opening offshore production systems containing crude, condensate or gas. It describes isolation, draining, purging, flushing, ventilation and mercury testing, alongside respiratory protection and protective clothing. Additional guidance covers mercury collection, equipment checks, airborne and biological monitoring, waste handling, decontamination and worker training.
- 2011Mar
OCM1 - Confined spaces
Guidance for offshore dutyholders on preparing method statements for confined-space work. It addresses avoiding entry, competent workers, isolation, ventilation, atmospheric testing and breathing apparatus checks. Space-specific rescue planning includes communication, rescuer capability, resuscitation equipment and practice exercises, with clarification of the offshore status of confined-space regulations.
- 201025 Aug
Xcel Energy Company Hydroelectric Tunnel Fire
Investigates the fatal Cabin Creek penstock fire during epoxy sprayer cleaning with methyl ethyl ketone. Static discharge was the most likely ignition source. The report examines confined-space monitoring, contractor selection, training and rescue arrangements, with recommendations on solvent substitution, ignition prevention and escape, supported by comparative incident research.
- 201031 Mar
The back-loading and carriage of hazardous oil contaminated bulk cargo on offshore supply vessels
This alert addresses hazardous oil-contaminated waste carried in offshore supply vessel mud tanks following reports of hydrogen sulphide and explosive atmospheres. It sets out pre-loading analysis, trained testing, hazard documentation and segregation measures, alongside restrictions on mud-tank use for fluids from wells with open perforations.
- 2010Feb
Packaging Corporation Storage Tank Explosion — Seven Key Lessons to Prevent Worker Deaths During Hot Work In and Around Tanks
This safety bulletin examines eleven hot-work accidents involving tanks across several industries. Seven lessons address alternatives to hot work, hazard assessment, atmospheric monitoring, adjacent spaces, written permits, training and contractor supervision. Cases distinguish absent gas testing from ineffective testing, emphasising detector calibration, sampling locations and monitoring before and during work.
- 2009Sep
ConAgra Natural Gas Explosion and Ammonia Release — Safety Bulletin - Dangers of Purging Gas Piping Into Buildings
This safety bulletin examines the ConAgra factory explosion and similar incidents involving indoor fuel-gas purging. It explains direct displacement of air, hazardous gas accumulation and unreliable odour detection. Recommendations favour outdoor venting wherever practicable, with gas monitoring, ignition control, ventilation, removal of nonessential personnel and training addressing odour fade.
- 200823 Jul
Ballast tank hydrogen
A crew member lost consciousness after a tank was opened for planned maintenance on a semi-submersible accommodation unit. Later sampling identified unexpectedly high hydrogen levels, explained by an electrolytic reaction in the ballast tank below. The flash recommends regular venting, purging before opening, hydrogen testing before entry and reviewing sampling procedures.
- 200720 Dec
Bell contamination
A subsea fitting failure exposed divers to a hazardous substance from a pressurised hose. Contamination entered the bell, where a diver felt faint and the analyser did not alarm. The flash examines infrared detection limitations and recommends enhanced diving procedures, decontamination, appropriate atmospheric testing and chemical safety assessments.
- 200731 Oct
Confined space fatality
This safety flash describes fatal casualties following an explosion and serious fire in a vessel’s machinery space while in dry dock. Flammable gas accumulation was considered possible, with the ignition source unknown. Recommendations address gas-free certification, ongoing atmospheric monitoring, and isolation, depressurisation or removal of flammable-gas hoses during work breaks.
- 2007Sep
Hot Work Permits — Process Safety Beacon, September 2007
Two fatal welding incidents illustrate failures in hot-work precautions: interconnected tanks released flammable vapours into a welding area, while welding near a petrol truck preceded fire and explosion. The bulletin stresses permit procedures, qualified permit issuers, safe flammable-gas detection and stopping work when safety is doubtful.
- 2007Jun
Partridge Raleigh Oilfield Explosion and Fire — Case Study
CSB case study of a fatal oilfield explosion in Raleigh, Mississippi, during welding on interconnected production tanks. It examines vapour ignition, unsafe tank flashing, absent isolation and gas testing, and a makeshift elevated work platform. Findings and recommendations address hot work permits, written procedures, training and regulatory oversight.
- 2006Mar
Sterigenics Ethylene Oxide Explosion — Final Investigation Report
Investigation of an ethylene oxide sterilisation explosion at Sterigenics’ Ontario facility. Bypassed gas washing allowed an explosive mixture to reach the oxidiser, with flame propagation back to the chamber. The report examines safeguards, concentration monitoring, maintenance training, hazard analysis and control-room glazing, and recommends improvements across sterilisation facilities.
- 200315 Jul
Safety Alert 214 - Flash Fire and Explosion from Inadequately Vented Production Vessel
A confined-space sampling operation in a low-pressure separator resulted in a flash explosion, injuring four workers and blowing one off the platform into the water. The alert identifies inadequate ventilation and incomplete gas-detector deployment, and recommends procedural confirmation, hatchway hazard awareness, flotation-device readiness and review of guard barriers.
- 20033 Jul
Exposure to CO₂ release from dry ice storage
Two crew members became unwell while stowing refrigerated food aboard a vessel. Dry ice packed with fresh milk released carbon dioxide, displacing oxygen in the enclosed stowage area. The flash describes evacuation, atmospheric testing, job safety analysis, removal using self-contained breathing apparatus and overnight ventilation.
- 2003Jun
Hazards of Nitrogen Asphyxiation — Safety Bulletin - Hazards of Nitrogen Asphyxiation
This bulletin examines nitrogen asphyxiation through workplace incident data and selected cases involving confined spaces, breathing-air mix-ups and attempted rescue. It explains oxygen displacement and discusses continuous atmospheric monitoring, fresh-air ventilation, retrieval arrangements, breathing-air supply integrity, incompatible cylinder fittings and training for employees and contractors.
- 2002Oct
Motiva Enterprises Sulfuric Acid Tank Explosion — Final Investigation Report
Investigation of a fatal sulphuric acid tank explosion at Delaware City refinery during catwalk repairs. The report examines corrosion, deferred inspections, inadequate carbon dioxide inerting, hot-work authorisation and changes to cutting methods. It analyses tank failure and containment limitations, compares earlier incidents, and recommends improvements to integrity management and change review.
- 2001Mar
Entry to enclosed space on bulk carrier Diamond Bulker with 1 person injured and loss of 2 lives
Investigates two deaths and one injury during a military search of Diamond Bulker at anchor in Lough Foyle. The report attributes the accident to oxygen depletion and increased carbon dioxide from coal oxidation. It examines entry testing, breathing apparatus, inter-service planning, training and rescue, supported by subsequent atmospheric investigations.
- 20001 Sep
Confined space incident
Two workers died from oxygen deprivation during tank entry on a cargo barge, the second entering to rescue his collapsed colleague. A mandatory entry-permit procedure existed. Recovery involved breathing sets, and the company subsequently required atmospheric testing for all confined-space work, whether or not entry was necessary.
- 200025 Jan
Safety Alert 15 - Electrical Cable Testing
A Pacific OCS platform fire followed insulation testing of a submersible pump power cable when grounding produced a spark that ignited escaping well-annulus gas. The alert recommends avoiding rig-floor testing, using purged rooms where feasible, requiring permits and continuous flammable-gas monitoring in non-purged environments, and reducing sparking through suitable instruments and capacitance discharge.
- 1997
OCS Report 1997
Compiles 1997 Outer Continental Shelf incidents from Pacific and Gulf of Mexico records, combining performance analysis with case narratives covering fires, blowouts, injuries, collisions and pipeline releases. Examines crane failures and lifting accessories, records incident responses and testing, and includes a separate crane review and historical statistical charts.
- 1996
MAIB Safety Digest 1/1996
A collection of maritime casualty accounts examines towing failures, engine-room fires, fatigue-related groundings, machinery injuries and fatal tank exposure. Cases discuss lifeboat winch clutches, fuel-system fittings, oxygen hoses and fishing-vessel flooding. Commentary addresses operating instructions, atmospheric testing, watchkeeper rest, fire suppression and lifesaving arrangements, retaining uncertainty where causes were not established.
- 1995
MAIB Safety Digest 3/1995
A marine safety digest examines casualties involving cargo movement, navigation, tank entry, flooding, capsizing and fishing gear injuries. Case commentary discusses gas-monitor interpretation, watertight closures, securing arrangements, bridge monitoring and emergency escape. Fishing cases explore snagged gear, shifting catch and unsafe handling of tensioned bridles.
- 1990
MAIB Safety Digest 2/1990
A collection of marine investigations examines fatal enclosed-space entry, collisions, welding and cargo-hold fires, vessel losses and fishing accidents. Case observations address atmospheric testing, navigation, cargo securing, buoyancy equipment and winch operation. Reprinted guidance covers recovered explosive weapons, while an appendix lists investigations commenced during January–March 1990.
- 1990
MAIB Safety Digest 3/1990
Marine investigation summaries examine engine-room fires, groundings, flooding, asbestos repairs, carbon monoxide exposure and offshore cargo-handling injuries. Fishing cases address gear movement, capsizing and survival. Comments discuss passage planning, watchkeeping, hot-work isolation, atmospheric testing and accessible liferafts. An appendix lists investigations commenced between April and June 1990.
- 198624 Jul
Safety Alert 150 - Fire Occurs During Cutting Operation to Install Casing Head
During casing-head installation on a production platform, cutting slag ignited gas from a sump-tank level controller. A fire watch extinguished the fire without injury, damage or pollution. Gas isolation, atmospheric testing and a wet tarp preceded restarting; the operator committed to bleeding down nearby equipment and closely monitoring cutting and welding.
- 198529 May
Safety Alert 138 - Fire and Injury During Welding Operations in Derrick
A rig mechanic sustained burns during welding in a derrick when an explosion and fire occurred. Accumulated acetylene from a leaking hose was the suspected ignition source. The alert identifies missing permit, fire-watch, gas-testing and communication arrangements, and records requirements for plan reviews and designated welders.
- 198324 Mar
Safety Alert 110 - Fire
During casing running, a welder cutting a thread protector ignited gas migrating from the bell nipple, injuring a crew member filling the hole with mud. The alert describes BOP closure and hose extinguishment, reinforces prohibition of hot work near open wells, and recommends combustible-gas checks.
- Undated
Thief-Hatch Fire During Welding and Cutting
BSEE investigates a small thief-hatch fire during welding and cutting at South Marsh Island 130 A. Slag ignited venting combustible vapours where fire blankets provided insufficient protection. Findings examine inadequate tank isolation, missing valve lockout and tagout, gas-testing locations and unimplemented venting mitigations. No injuries or facility damage occurred.
- Undated
Produced-Water Leak from Float-Cell Drain Header with H2S Alarms
An investigation records a produced-water leak from a corroded float-cell drain header, accompanied by H2S alarms. Personnel isolated the equipment, temporarily patched the header and mustered with breathing apparatus. No injuries occurred. The report identifies inadequate maintenance and records replacement of the piping and implementation of a more detailed corrosion plan.
- Undated
Gas Fire During Grating Cutting Above Gas-Lift Valve
An investigation describes a gas fire during grating cutting above a partly unbolted gas-lift valve on Platform 116. Gas testing, a hot-work permit and a fire watch were in place. The report attributes the fire to small upstream valve leaks; it was immediately extinguished without injury or damage.
- Undated
Gas Explosion in Motor Control Centre Room After Compressor Starting Failures
An investigation examines a production-platform explosion after compressor starting failures. Low-pressure gas migrated from a water skimmer through deck penetrations into the motor control centre room, where a relay ignited trapped gas. Recommendations address sealing penetrations, modifying blowdown pipework or installing a flow safety valve, and checking buildings for migration paths.
- Undated
Hydrogen Sulphide Detected During Dewatering Following Hurricane Recovery
Investigation of hydrogen sulphide detected during dewatering at Cognac following hurricane recovery work. Analysis linked the gas to bacterial activity beneath oil-coated deposits that chemical treatment had not reached. The report records shutdown, atmospheric checks and recommendations for revised de-oiling procedures, biocide circulation and bacteria testing before dewatering.
- Undated
Gas Fire Following Caisson Cutting
This investigation describes a gas fire following caisson cutting. A damaged VR plug in the casing annulus leaked while the metal remained hot, despite an initial gas check indicating no gas. An employee extinguished the fire with dry chemical equipment. No injuries or pollution occurred; a tapped blind flange was subsequently installed.
- Undated
Flash Fire During Platform Crane Diesel Engine Starting
An investigation records a flash fire during attempts to start a platform crane diesel engine, injuring two personnel. Probable causes included natural gas accumulation, unsafe starter exhaust routing and removed inspection plates. Engine exhaust valves were a possible ignition source; contributing factors included absent job safety analysis and gas detection.
- Undated
Flash Fire During Casing Welding in Well Abandonment
An investigation of a flash fire during well abandonment describes three workers suffering burns while pad eyes were welded inside casing. Burning slag ignited gas in the wellbore. Findings address incomplete permits, inadequate hazard analysis, gas testing and supervision, including failure to reassess risk when the welding arrangement changed.
- Undated
Hydrogen Sulphide Release Through Corroded Piping During Pigging
BSEE investigates a hydrogen sulphide release during pigging at Main Pass 299-FP. Exterior corrosion compromised scrubber outlet piping; inadequate routine corrosion maintenance was identified as the primary cause. The report describes repeated alarms, mustering, breathing apparatus use and leak detection. Internal corrosion was not confirmed.
- Undated
Hydrogen Sulphide Release During Pipeline Flushing for Platform Abandonment
Investigation of a hydrogen sulphide release during pipeline flushing for platform abandonment at South Pelto 5-B. Detection of 100 ppm prompted cessation of operations and muster on a neighbouring lift barge. The report attributes gas formation to bacterial growth in retained pipeline water and records tank neutralisation without injuries or ill effects.
- Undated
Water-Surface Fire During Welding and Burning of Boat-Landing Handrails
Investigation of a water-surface fire at Platform J during welding and burning of boat-landing handrails. Hot slag ignited gas escaping through a seawater heat exchanger’s overboard discharge. The report describes pre-work precautions, gas detection limitations, extinguishment and isolation, with no injuries, pollution or property damage reported.
- Undated
Torch Cutting Slag Ignited Leaking Gas During Well Decommissioning
Investigates a brief fire during torch cutting for well decommissioning on Ship Shoal 177 A. Slag ignited gas leaking through an adjacent well’s surface safety valve diaphragm. Findings identify failure to shut in that well, conflicting work documents and poor communication. The fire was extinguished immediately, with no harm or damage.
- Undated
Worker Sustained Facial Flash Burn During Well Abandonment Torch Cutting
Investigates a worker’s facial flash burn during torch cutting for well abandonment at Eugene Island Block 325A. Apache attributed the flash fire to slag reacting with biogenic gas inside casing. Findings address deviation from the agreed cutting method, absent written procedures and atmospheric testing that failed to detect explosive vapours.
- Undated
Flash Fire During Hot Work Preparing Platform for Jacket Removal
Investigation of a flash fire during hot work preparing an offshore platform for jacket removal. Torch slag ignited vapours in an out-of-service sump pile. A welder suffered hand burns and fell into the water. Findings address flammable substances, task-specific hazard analysis, permit verification and gas-detection competence.
- Undated
Residual Acetylene Ignited During Conductor-Casing Cutting
An investigation into a welder’s injury during conductor-casing cutting in abandonment and platform removal operations records residual acetylene ignition and momentary unconsciousness. Medical evaluation identified a slight left-wrist sprain. The report discusses hydrocarbon gas checks and a job safety analysis that omitted confined-space hazards, with no district recommendations.
- Undated
Worker Overcome by Fumes During Heater-Treater Cleaning
BSEE investigates a heater-treater cleaning incident on High Island A 379 B platform. A worker entered with an air-purifying respirator, was overcome by fumes and required rescue and resuscitation. Findings identify failures in confined-space permits, atmospheric monitoring, rescue readiness and personnel competence, alongside inaccurate reporting of the injury’s severity.
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Hydrogen Sulphide Exposure During Orifice Plate Change
Investigation of hydrogen sulphide exposure during an orifice plate change at MP 299-B. A leaking meter-run gate released gas, repeatedly overcoming the lead operator, who fell through the ladder cage. The report identifies absent job analysis, monitoring, respiratory protection and mentoring, and records operator measures to prevent recurrence.
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Flash Fire During Burning Bar Use in Platform Decommissioning
Investigation of a flash fire during platform decommissioning at Matagorda Island 685. An Oxylance burning bar ignited gas trapped in a casing annulus after checks elsewhere indicated no combustible gas. The report examines detection limitations, evacuation and subsequent air circulation and testing; no injuries, pollution or property damage were reported.
- Undated
Two Drilling Kicks During Deepwater Well Operations
Investigation of two drilling kicks on Maersk Valiant in Walker Ridge Block 578. The first discharged approximately 55 barrels of mud onto the rig floor; shut-in fractured the formation and casing shoe. ROV checks and wireline logs assessed containment. The second kick remained contained. Neither incident caused injuries or pollution.
- Undated
Flash Fire During Torch Cutting of Tubing-Hanger Flange Nut
An investigation describes a flash fire during preparation of a well for a sidetrack. Torch cutting of a stubborn tubing-hanger flange nut released trapped gas despite a hot-work permit, gas testing and a fire watch. One worker suffered a neck rash, received burn cream and returned to work.
- Undated
Pressure Release and Flash Fire During Vent-Pipe Welding
An investigation examines a pressure release and flash fire during vent-pipe welding on Viosca Knoll 817-A, injuring a contractor. Friction plugs moved during the work despite gas testing. Findings identify failure to check pressure behind the plugs; recommendations call for a plug-use checklist and pressure checks before hot work.
- Undated
Gas Release from Corroded Vent Line Prompts Platform Shut-In
BSEE investigates a gas release from a corroded eight-inch vent line on South Pass 62 C platform. Portable gas detection confirmed the leak, prompting manual shut-in. The report identifies inspection and maintenance deficiencies, notes that Level 1 surveys missed the affected pipe, and recommends considering additional routine corrosion inspections.