Equipment
Breathing Apparatus
Equipment supplying breathing gas independently of ambient air.
Newest 100 Documents
All 107 in search- 202628 Apr
Diver entanglement – uncontrolled equipment in the water column
During shallow-water welding, a diver’s bail-out regulator became entangled in a rope supporting a rubber mat and welding rods. Swell moved the suspended items uncontrollably. A stand-by diver freed him within the planned diving time. The flash highlights loose-rope avoidance, tool positioning and possible use of lockable carabiners.
- 2026
Fit testing respiratory protective equipment for escape and emergency response on offshore installations
Guidance on face-fit testing respiratory protection for offshore escape and emergency response teams. It distinguishes tight-fitting breathing apparatus from escape equipment that does not require fit testing, and addresses risk assessment, clean-shaven policies, prompt donning and training. Dutyholders are advised to review escape provision and ensure emergency responders receive required fit testing.
- 2025
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 80 (Autumn 2025)
This maritime incident digest examines unsafe pilot transfers, an obstructed escape hatch, incorrect antenna labelling, pest infestation and unsafe fumigation, an unmanned survey vessel capsize, and an enclosed-space inspection injury. Commentary emphasises practical design validation, operational limits, crew welfare and confirmed communication between teams.
- 202412 Dec
Engine room fire on board ro-ro passenger ferry Stena Europe
Investigation of Stena Europe’s engine room fire while approaching Fishguard. Pressurised fuel escaped from a flange joint and ignited on exposed exhaust surfaces. The report examines recurring leaks, incomplete flange modifications, deficient insulation, maintenance and reporting weaknesses, firefighting response, and thermal imaging for detecting hazardous hot spots.
- 202414 Aug
MSF: Serious hand injury – high pressure air
During a vessel fire drill, a crewmember assisting with breathing apparatus suffered a finger injury from high-pressure air released through a cylinder valve’s pilot vent hole. Surgical treatment was required. The flash relays MSF recommendations on connection tightening, leak checks, breathing checks and low-pressure alarm testing.
- 202416 Jul
Loss of pressure to diver’s primary air supply
A diver was recovered safely after primary air supply pressure fell. Surface testing traced regulator sticking to dried lubricant restricting the sensing assembly, particularly during light breathing. The flash discusses supervisory intervention, insufficient internal servicing, regulator rotation and increased six-monthly maintenance, testing and cleaning.
- 202313 Dec
BSEE Safety Alert 477 - Hazards of Working in Confined Spaces
BSEE describes two tank-cleaning incidents requiring CPR: an unplanned entry to free a vacuum nozzle and illness followed by collapse during exit. The alert examines procedural lapses and rushing in the first case, and recommends operators consider entry planning, communication, ventilation, appropriate respiratory protection, rescue arrangements and current training.
- 20237 Dec
Accidental discharge of condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing system on beam trawler Resurgam with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal accidental aerosol fire-extinguishing system discharge during installation aboard Resurgam in Newlyn harbour. It examines electrical commissioning, generator placement, toxic combustion products and impaired escape. Laboratory trials inform analysis of inhalation hazards, while findings address installer competence, regulatory approval, contractor coordination and rescue arrangements.
- 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
Compressed air rather than oxygen supplied to divers
This safety flash describes divers receiving compressed air instead of oxygen through their built-in breathing system, with two decompression illnesses reported. It examines incorrect gas-quad identification, missing oxygen-fraction checks and an analyser coverage gap. Lessons address supplier oversight, technical competence, investigation training and gas-management verification.
- 202329 Aug
MSF: Air cylinder – high pressure discharge
A breathing apparatus cylinder’s pillar valve broke off while a crew member drained residual pressure before landing it ashore. Nobody was injured. The investigator considered impact from dropping the cylinder responsible. Recommendations address secure handling, slow controlled discharge, valve orientation and PPE; the owner is investigating excess-flow valves.
- 202317 Aug
Engine room fire on LPG carrier Moritz Schulte with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal engine-room fire aboard Moritz Schulte in Antwerp. Pressurised marine gas oil escaped during inadequately isolated fuel-filter cleaning and ignited on an adjacent engine’s hot exhaust. The report examines maintenance arrangements, competence assurance, escape equipment and rescue coordination, including thermal imaging. No recommendations were made following actions already taken.
- 2023May
Hydrogen Sulfide
Regulatory inspection questions address areas classified as hydrogen sulphide present or unknown. They cover contingency plans, training, drills, gas detection, respiratory protection, ventilation and medical equipment. Further checks address soluble sulphide testing, well-control fluid treatment, flaring, detector testing intervals and corrosion-resistant materials during well and production operations.
- 202327 Feb
Near miss: Foreign body in diver’s helmet, resulting in fall of gas pressure
A diver at 18 m experienced reduced breathing gas pressure. Bailout gas did not resolve the problem, but free flow restored suitable pressure. A plastic shard from a broken cleaning pot was found in the helmet regulator. The flash highlights pre-dive checks, cleanliness and the member’s introduction of spray bottles.
- 2023
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 2 (Spring 2023)
Six superyacht reports examine authority gradients, guest distractions and safety culture through a deck slip, navigational near misses, tender lifting failure, towing capsize and lithium-ion battery fire. Commentary discusses constructive challenge, safe access, inspection limitations, lifejackets, emergency communications and fire response, contrasting weak practices with effective crew action.
- 202221 Apr
Diver experienced an air flow restriction
A surface-supplied diver experienced restricted air flow at 23msw and the dive was aborted without injury. Investigation identified a needle valve that failed to open properly, with possible overtightening linked to premature equipment fatigue. Actions included valve replacement, revised pre-dive checks and operating procedures, and a team emergency debrief.
- 20218 Nov
Failure of first stage regulator low pressure (LP) blanking cap
A diver’s bailout regulator leaked after a low-pressure port blanking cap failed. The dive ended and both divers were recovered safely. The flash records replacement of caps and O-rings, specified torque checks in work orders, and assessment of regulators used for more than ten years for possible replacement.
- 202115 Oct
Portable electrical equipment – serious fire in the accommodation
A kettle left switched on in an unoccupied cabin caused a serious accommodation fire aboard an anchored vessel. Failure of its cut-off switch was considered highly probable. The flash discusses firefighting access, boundary cooling, beard-related breathing-apparatus leakage and questions about permitted portable electrical equipment. No injuries occurred, but damage and off-hire losses were substantial.
- 202116 Jun
Failure of EGS valve stem on dive helmet
A diving helmet’s emergency gas valve handle broke during pre-dive inspection on deck. Laboratory analysis attributed the failure to pitting and chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking. After replacement and testing, the helmet returned to service. The company introduced scheduled dye penetrant testing and identified three further stems with stress-like indications.
- 202119 Apr
MAIB: Engine failure and subsequent fire
This flash summarises MAIB findings on Finlandia Seaways’ main engine failure and engine-room fire. A broken connecting rod preceded the fire, and an engineer suffered serious smoke-related injuries. It highlights maintenance management and manufacturer instructions, successful carbon dioxide suppression, absent escape breathing devices and difficulties confirming gas-bottle discharge.
- 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.
- 20206 Dec
Air cylinders – Differences in working pressure and valve types
Incorrect SCBA cylinders were supplied, with different capacities and working pressures from those ordered. Compatible filling connections could allow reduced air capacity, while valve-head types were also incorrectly specified. The flash identifies supplier assumptions, purchasing checks and incomplete specifications, and calls for better communication between requesters, purchasing staff and vendors.
- 202023 Oct
Two deaths of military divers
Two military diving fatalities highlight different training failures. In the UK, a recovered diver’s cylinders were empty, prompting action over air endurance calculations and risk assessment. In New Zealand, investigators identified departures from training standards and covert breathing-apparatus mode switching. IMCA reiterates SCUBA’s limitations for offshore diving work.
- 202015 Sep
Near miss: Sudden loss of air from diver bail-out bottle
A diver’s bail-out bottle emptied after a first-stage regulator diaphragm failed; he was recovered safely. Examination found weakened structural fibres and a hole despite recent servicing. The flash highlights subjective serviceability judgements, undefined replacement criteria and an enhanced planned maintenance requirement to replace the diaphragm alongside service-kit items.
- 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.
- 2019Jun
Aviation (Helideck Operations)
An offshore inspection guide setting out regulatory responsibilities and success criteria for safe helideck operations. It covers team competence, certification, emergency planning, protective equipment, breathing apparatus monitoring and escape routes. Drone inspection risks and gas-linked wave-off lights are addressed alongside dutyholder performance scoring and enforcement expectations.
- 201913 May
Diver fatality during subsea lifting operations – update
This fatal diving incident update examines secondary life support activation after a trapped umbilical interrupted primary breathing gas during subsea spool relocation. Delayed completion of two-stage activation accelerated gas depletion. It reports equipment testing, refresher training and drills, and a decision to replace two-stage systems with single-stage activation.
- 201925 Apr
Damaged high pressure content gauge hoses on bail-outs
Two diving incidents within 24 hours involved depleted bail-out bottles and leaking high-pressure content gauge hoses. Examination identified cuts and bending-related damage near ferrule connectors despite bend restrictors and regular checks. The flash compares hose constructions and notes that annual replacement of one type may be required, depending on usage.
- 201928 Jan
Confined space entry: Worker died inside pump room
A worker died after losing consciousness while six workers dismantled valves in a vessel’s pump room and noticed fumes. The flash relays WSH precautions covering atmospheric ventilation, respiratory protection when adequate ventilation is impossible, and isolation, depressurisation and purging of hazardous-material pipelines before dismantling.
- 201819 Oct
Safety warning about working in enclosed spaces after the loss of 1 life on a fishing vessel
This bulletin presents initial findings from a fatal refrigerated salt water tank entry aboard Sunbeam at Fraserburgh. Testing found severe oxygen deficiency and Freon R22; refrigerant leakage through failed evaporator tubes was considered likely. It discusses hazardous rescue attempts and recommends tank-entry risk assessments, safe procedures and appropriate safety equipment.
- 20183 Sep
Diver fatality during subsea lifting operations
A diver died during spool relocation using lift bags at 172 metres seawater depth. Rigging caught the umbilical during uncontrolled spool ascent; subsequent trapping interrupted primary breathing gas. Secondary life support apparently functioned but did not prevent death. Pending investigation, interim recommendations address planning, supervision, documented instructions and stopping work when controls are inadequate.
- 20177 Nov
KM 37k/ss helmet neck dam near miss
An air diver’s helmet flooded during offshore subsea work after locking pull pins caught on a recovery harness and released the collar. Free-flow over-pressurisation displaced the neck dam seal. The flash describes standby-diver assistance, missing pull-pin sleeves, workshop modifications, pre-dive checks and changes to tool placement.
- 20173 Mar
Near-miss: Suspected high levels of CO₂ in diver breathing gas
Two saturation divers working at approximately 92 m experienced breathing difficulties associated with elevated carbon dioxide in reclaimed breathing gas. Saturated absorbent and apparently incorrect analyser calibration were identified. The dive was aborted without further ill effects. Learning focuses on alarm settings, operating manuals, safety-critical competence and contaminated-gas emergency arrangements.
- 201620 Dec
Awareness: CO₂ flooding system activation points
This safety flash highlights missing breathing-apparatus guidance for a vessel’s carbon dioxide flooding-system activation point inside its bottle room. Potential leakage during activation could create a hazardous atmosphere. The member recommended breathing apparatus for specified entry, activation and drill situations, and reviewed vessel procedures for updates where required.
- 20161 Sep
Fire in the engine room on the suction dredger Arco Avon with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal engine-room fire aboard Arco Avon during an attempted fuel-pipe repair. It identifies portable angle-grinder sparks as the probable ignition source and examines pipe fretting, hot-work controls, lone working, protective clothing, CO2 system operation and medical response. Recommendations address maintenance inspections and safety-management implementation.
- 20162 Aug
Near-miss: Unintentional release of diving helmet – neck dam/helmet securing arrangements
A Kirby Morgan 37 helmet separated from its neck dam during a dive in 9 m water, causing minor ingress. The diver returned safely. Investigation found no identifiable helmet defects and suggested incorrect fitting by the tender. Lessons cover repeated pre-entry checks, approved lock-pin sleeves, emergency access and continued complacency training.
- 201615 Mar
Super Puma Sea Impact During Non-Precision Approach to Sumburgh
Investigation of G-WNSB’s sea impact during a non-precision approach to Sumburgh, with four passenger fatalities. It examines ineffective instrument monitoring, approach procedures and automation use through recorded flight data and human-performance studies. Survivability analysis addresses underwater escape, emergency breathing systems, flotation, liferaft deployment and rescue, alongside recommendations and subsequent safety action.
- 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.
- 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.
- 201416 Dec
Emergency Breathing System Passenger Briefings Following Super Puma Accident
This investigation update examines passenger briefings on emergency breathing systems following the Super Puma accident near Sumburgh. It explains compressed-air, rebreather and hybrid designs, identifying incomplete information about automatic air delivery in hybrid systems. Operators undertook to revise briefings to explain usability without a breath taken before submersion.
- 20143 Oct
Near-miss: Failure of diving helmet communications module
A Kirby Morgan KM 37 helmet communications module failed during a dive to 12 msw. The diver limited air loss by covering the partial opening and surfaced without injury. Supplier analysis suggested an isolated failure; follow-up actions included inspecting other modules and introducing regular hand loosening and retightening during checks.
- 2014Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2014
A collection of marine accident accounts and preventive lessons covering merchant vessels, fishing boats and small craft. Cases examine groundings, collisions, fires, flooding, mooring injuries and rescue difficulties. Discussions address navigation equipment, watchkeeping fatigue, crew coordination, emergency drills and equipment readiness, with an appended bulletin on oxygen depletion and unsafe rescue attempts.
- 20148 Sep
Confined space entry – multiple fatalities
Three crew members died after entering a cargo hold access compartment on a docked timber-carrying vessel. The flash describes rescue attempts involving breathing apparatus without a fitted face mask, an emergency escape breathing device and lifting slings. Rescuers experienced severe breathing problems, and resuscitation efforts failed to save the casualties.
- 20147 Aug
Near-miss: Incorrect length retaining screws fitted on divers helmet
Maintenance of an Ultrajewel 601 diver’s helmet revealed shortened retaining screws with inadequate thread engagement in the exhaust valve cover assembly. Three of four screws had been modified, creating potential for cover separation during use. Lessons emphasise manufacturer-supplied parts, controlled spare-parts storage and competent maintenance personnel.
- 2014Aug
Safety warning regarding entry to confined spaces after loss of 3 lives
This safety bulletin examines three crew deaths following entry into Suntis’s cargo hold access compartment. Initial findings identified severe oxygen depletion, likely associated with timber cargo. It discusses unsafe rescue attempts, breathing apparatus deficiencies, permit-controlled entry, rescue planning and training, and the limitations of emergency escape breathing devices.
- 2014Jul
Fire in accommodation area on general cargo vessel Celtic Carrier with 1 person injured
Investigation of Celtic Carrier’s accommodation fire off Cape Trafalgar examines cigarette ignition of sofa foam, crew escape and firefighting, including breathing-air limitations and boundary cooling. It identifies inadequate emergency preparedness, falsified drill records and weaknesses in company safety culture and regulatory auditing, and records subsequent corrective actions.
- 201320 Dec
High potential near-miss: Incompatible pillar valve assembly
This flash describes a pillar-valve failure while charging a diver’s twin bailout set. The investigation identified mixed imperial and metric cylinders, absent management of change and forced valve insertion without investigating resistance. Corrective actions included metric-only components, thread measurement, parts marking and training in management of change.
- 2013Dec
Fall on foredeck of dive workboat Jean Elaine with loss of 1 life
Investigates a recreational technical diver’s fatal accident after a foredeck fall aboard Jean Elaine near Cape Wrath. Examines how fins and heavy diving equipment affected balance and injury severity, and the possible influence of abdominal trauma on his subsequent dive. Reviews risk assessment, physical support, supervision and skipper training.
- 2013May
Respiratory protective equipment at work
Workplace guidance explains how to select respiratory protection matched to airborne hazards, exposure levels, wearers and tasks. It distinguishes filtering respirators from breathing apparatus, addresses protection factors, qualitative and quantitative fit testing, training, maintenance and breathing-air quality, and illustrates selection through three practical case studies.
- 2013Feb
Fire in engine room and subsequent abandonment of twin rig trawler Denarius
Investigation of the Denarius fire and abandonment, 83 miles NNE of Kinnaird Head. Retarded engine timing allowed unburnt fuel to accumulate and ignite in the exhaust; degraded insulation and bulkheads transmitted heat to wiring. The report examines maintenance, fire containment, distress communications and successful liferaft abandonment followed by helicopter rescue.
- 2013
Control of substances hazardous to health (Sixth edition)
This sixth-edition Approved Code of Practice explains COSHH duties for preventing and controlling occupational exposure to hazardous substances, including biological agents. It addresses assessment of exposure routes, selection and maintenance of controls, respiratory protection, exposure monitoring, health surveillance, training and emergency arrangements, distinguishing statutory requirements from supporting guidance.
- 2012Aug
Accidental discharge of carbon dioxide during fixed CO2 fire extinguishing system test on tug SD Nimble with 1 person injured
Investigation of an unintended carbon dioxide discharge during servicing of SD Nimble’s fixed firefighting system, injuring an engineer. Pilot lines remained connected to the cylinders during testing. The report examines isolation, training, supervision, system drawings and rescue, identifying an incorrect action plan as the likely explanation for the isolation mistake.
- 201210 Jul
Confined space entry fatality
A crewman entered a vessel’s cargo tank without breathing apparatus to retrieve sampling equipment and died from oxygen deprivation despite rescue efforts. The flash summarises AIBN findings on the probable tank atmosphere, probable lack of motivation to comply with procedures, and wider non-compliance with confined space entry requirements aboard the vessel.
- 201213 Jun
Risk of MSA SavOx units catching fire if the wearer does not follow start up procedures
This alert describes an MSA SavOx oxygen self-rescuer fire after a coal-mine evacuation, with no injuries. The starter apparently activated when the already hot unit was picked up, supplying additional oxygen. It calls for user training and competence assessment, emphasising correct activation before inserting the mouthpiece.
- 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.
- 2011Nov
Fire in unaccompanied refrigerated trailer unit on main vehicle deck of ro-ro passenger ferry Commodore Clipper
Investigation of a refrigerated-trailer fire aboard Commodore Clipper during passage to Portsmouth. It examines reefer connector assembly, high-resistance electrical faults, alarm response and the limitations of vehicle-deck drenching. Cargo access, accumulated firefighting water, passenger disembarkation and inter-agency coordination complicated the response. Annexes document electrical examination and material ignition testing.
- 2011Aug
OCE6 - Hydrogen sulphide
This offshore COSHH information sheet addresses hydrogen sulphide exposure through area classification, gas detection, isolation, ventilation and respiratory protection. It specifies positive-pressure breathing apparatus, equipment checks and testing intervals, alongside emergency planning, rescue training and supervision. Detection arrangements differ according to area category and process-stream concentration.
- 20111 Apr
Fake emergency escape breathing device (EEBD) sets
This flash relays a Marine Safety Forum warning about counterfeit emergency escape breathing devices copying the Unitor/MSA Uniscape 15H. It stresses removing discovered fake sets from service and informing their owners, warning that the equipment will not function properly during an emergency.
- 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
OCE3 - Painting by spraying
Guidance for offshore solvent-based paint mixing and spraying, excluding water-based paints. It addresses extracted habitats, clearance times, enclosed gun cleaning and air-fed respiratory protection. Measures include protective clothing and gloves, equipment examination, personal and biological exposure monitoring, and asthma and dermatitis surveillance, supported by training and supervision.
- 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.
- 2011Mar
OCM4 - Respiratory protective equipment (RPE)
Offshore COSHH guidance on selecting, using and maintaining respiratory protection. It covers assigned protection factors, face-fit testing, filter compatibility, breathing-air quality and wearer fitness. A supplier selection table captures task and wearer requirements, while instructions address training, pre-use checks, replacement parts and periodic examination.
- 2010Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2010
This digest presents lessons from merchant shipping, commercial fishing and small-craft accidents. Cases examine watchkeeping fatigue, groundings, collisions, machinery and propulsion-control failures, fires, hazardous cargo vapours and waterborne casualties. Discussions address navigation aids, respiratory protection, emergency drills, communication and adequate rest, with findings qualified as tentative.
- 20092 Oct
Failure of gas supply to diving bell
Checks at a storage depth of 102 metres revealed insufficient breathing-gas flow in both diving bells of a new system. Workshop testing reproduced the problem, and higher-performance regulators restored adequate flow. The flash recommends full functional testing at maximum working depths following significant changes, rather than relying on purging.
- 2008Jul
Safety warning after 3 investigations into entry to enclosed spaces with total loss of 6 lives
This MAIB bulletin examines six deaths across three shipboard enclosed-space accidents, including oxygen depletion associated with corrosion and cargo atmospheres. It discusses failed rescue attempts and breathing apparatus use, and recommends better identification of dangerous spaces, compliance with safe working practices and industry-wide awareness of continuing fatalities.
- 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.
- 2007Feb
DPC Enterprises Glendale Chlorine Release — Final Investigation Report
Investigates a chlorine release during railcar-to-trailer transfer at DPC’s Glendale facility. Scrubber over-chlorination initiated bleach decomposition and prolonged toxic emissions. The report examines procedural safeguards, hazard analysis, operator training and emergency response, including police respiratory protection, and recommends stronger safeguards, revised procedures and independent auditing.
- 2006Jul
Fire in engine room on stern trawler Ocean Challenge resulting in vessel sinking
A fishing accident flyer describes an engine-room fire on a wooden vessel, thought to involve an electrical fault. Failed emergency shutdown arrangements, evacuation, premature reboarding, renewed fire and subsequent sinking are described. Lessons address electrical checks, shutdown testing, compartment closure and safe re-entry by trained, appropriately equipped firefighters.
- 2006Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2006
This digest examines accidents involving merchant ships, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Cases address cargo shift, grounding, flooding, fire, fatigue, lifting injuries and lifeboat release testing. Preventive lessons discuss passage planning, watertight integrity, emergency equipment, maintenance, risk assessment and crew preparedness, while retaining uncertainty where causes remain unresolved.
- 20052 May
Near-miss: Flooding of a diver’s helmet
A diver’s Kirby Morgan Superlite 17B helmet flooded after incorrect alignment with the neck dam yoke. Secondary retention helped keep the helmet attached, and the diver surfaced without further problems. The flash sets out dressing checks, verbal confirmation, supervisory responsibilities and retrofit retention components, emphasising that these do not replace maintenance or pre-dive inspection.
- 2005Mar
Accidental release of vinyl chloride monomer from liquid gas carrier Coral Acropora exposing at least 33 people to vapours
MAIB investigates a vinyl chloride monomer release aboard Coral Acropora at Runcorn during preparation for cargo discharge. Pump-assisted sampling transferred cargo between tanks, with open valves and overridden safeguards contributing to over-pressurisation. The report examines segregation, alarm overrides, sampling precautions, ship–shore coordination and emergency arrangements.
- 2005
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2005
Marine accident lessons span merchant shipping, fishing vessels and leisure craft. A watchkeeping study combines investigation-file analysis with fatigue modelling. Cases examine navigation, stability, fire, machinery entanglement and falls, highlighting rest arrangements, risk assessment, isolation, emergency training and the limitations of protective equipment.
- 20031 Dec
Incorrect pressure-rated manifold fitted to diver’s bail-out
A diver’s twin-cylinder 300 bar bail-out was fitted with an unmarked manifold rated for 232 bar. The flash describes checks of assemblies by dive technicians and vessel-held manifold stocks to confirm suitable ratings and markings, with unmarked manifolds to be quarantined and returned to the company’s equipment department.
- 20031 Sep
Airline coupling failure
Two contract cleaners inside a produced-water de-gasser lost their primary breathing-air supply when an airline coupling separated. Personal secondary supplies enabled safe withdrawal. Inspection identified incompatible male fittings that held during initial hand testing but were insecure when flexed. Recommendations addressed recorded daily checks and replacement with compatible hoses.
- 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.
- 20031 Jan
Diving fatality
A diver died during underwater burning and salvage after his helmet flooded. Investigators identified malfunctioning personal breathing equipment, inadequate maintenance and failures in emergency procedures and company oversight. The company introduced mandatory loss-of-air exercises, company-controlled maintenance of diver-owned equipment, an enhanced pre-dive checklist and compliance audits.
- 2003Jan
Georgia-Pacific Corp. Hydrogen Sulfide Poisoning — Final Investigation Report
Investigation of fatal hydrogen sulphide exposure at Georgia-Pacific’s Naheola pulp mill in Alabama. Sodium hydrosulphide entered an acid sewer and reacted with sulphuric acid, releasing gas through a manway seal. The report examines reactive-hazard identification, sewer modifications, operating procedures, respiratory protection and emergency decontamination, including secondary exposure of medical responders.
- 20024 Jul
Update on ‘DSI Air Helmets – Leakage of Water into Regulator’
This safety flash updates an earlier warning about potential water leakage into the regulator of DSI air helmets. It reports receipt of a notice identifying affected products and part numbers, although those details are not reproduced in the supplied pages.
- 20011 Nov
Need for supplied air in the vicinity of man way during nitrogen purge
During a catalyst change-out, a junior engineer lost consciousness through oxygen deficiency after looking into a vessel manway while nitrogen purging continued during lunch. The company required supplied air near the manway pending further investigation and a chain restricting ladder access during staff breaks.
- 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.
- 20011 Jan
Diving fatality
A surface-supplied diver undertaking hook-up work at 8 metres drowned after vomiting blocked his air demand valve and he removed his helmet. The flash examines apparent confusion between bailout and free-flow valves, missing evidence of diving experience, and lessons on competence, breathing-pattern monitoring and responding to illness underwater.
- 20005 Dec
Near Miss – Frozen Air Regulator
A rig in a cold environment experienced failure of its breathing-air cascade supply while personnel wore work masks because of high hydrogen sulphide levels. Personnel switched immediately to five-minute escape units and evacuated the rig. No injuries were reported.
- 200010 Jul
Safety Alert 16 - Rupture Of Sour Gas Piping
An offshore sour-gas piping rupture released natural gas containing hydrogen sulphide without injury. Earlier ultrasonic testing had identified serious corrosion near the failed elbow, but no corrective action followed. The alert recommends detector testing and breathing-equipment familiarity during drills, and asks operators to consider periodic ultrasonic inspection, prompt results review and predetermined wall-thickness limits.
- 19996 Nov
SCBA Facepiece Safety Notice
This alert identifies a design defect in the MSA Ultra Elite SCBA facepiece. A protruding button used to open the exhalation valve for cleaning can accidentally touch the wearer’s chin and open the valve, allowing outside air into the facepiece with possible injury or death.
- 19986 Apr
Safety Alert 14 - Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide accumulated in a well bore and was released onto a Pacific OCS platform’s rig floor following extensive perforating, prompting personnel to use protective breathing equipment. The alert recommends operational CO monitors, large-capacity fans and supplied-air breathing units during extensive perforating, plus pre-operation safety discussion with contractors.
- 1993
MAIB Safety Digest 3/1993
Marine accident summaries examine shipboard fires, hazardous tank entry, collisions, grounding, lifeboat recovery failures and fishing-vessel casualties. Case commentary addresses lookout, radar bearings and parallel indexing, alarm status, breathing-apparatus competence, watertight subdivision and winch operation. An appendix lists investigations commenced between August and November 1993.
- 1992
MAIB Safety Digest 2/1992
Marine accident summaries examine collisions, deteriorated ramp wires, engine-room fire, winch entanglement, grinding-disc failure and hatch-operation injuries. Separate fishing cases address vessel losses and liferaft deployment failures. Commentary discusses passage planning, supervised machinery operation, maintenance, firefighting training and access protection, alongside an appendix of investigations commenced during April–June 1992.
- 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.
- Undated
Fire During Plumbing Installation on Semi-Submersible Rig
Investigation of a fire during plumbing installation on the Diamond Ocean Valiant semi-submersible rig. Grinding sparks ignited stored flammable materials; damaged cutting hoses subsequently supplied fuel. The report identifies failures in fire-watch arrangements, combustible clearance and hot-work permit compliance, and describes firefighting under heavy smoke with repeated breathing-air depletion.
- Undated
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.
- Undated
2012-104 Investigation of February 23, 2012, H2S Gas Release Platform Hidalgo, OCS-P 0450 Pacific OCS Region
Investigates a hydrogen sulphide release at Platform Hidalgo offshore California, with no reported injuries. Examines failed pipework, oxygen contamination and elemental sulphur formation, alongside limitations of point-specific ultrasonic inspection. Includes radiographic follow-up, thickness-monitoring arrangements and five-year inspection recommendations, plus historical Hermosa findings and emergency-response recommendations.
- Undated
BP - Ula - Investigation of hydrocarbon leak
Investigation of a hydrocarbon leak on Ula P attributes valve bolt fracture to chloride stress corrosion following exposure to produced water. It examines inconsistent material certification, assessment of earlier seepage, shutdown failures, ignition isolation and fire protection. Emergency planning and clean-up assessments also showed deficiencies; no people were injured.
- Undated
Carbon monoxide poisoning on stern trawler Mariama K with loss of 1 life
Investigation of fatal carbon monoxide poisoning aboard Mariama K in Douarnenez, France. A petrol-engined portable pump discharged exhaust into an engine room without forced ventilation. The report examines bilge-pump deficiencies, exposure during rescue, atmospheric testing and ventilation, alongside compromised fire containment and shortcomings in vessel management.
- Undated
Confined Space Entry Program Reference Manual
Reference manual for developing confined space entry programmes under British Columbia’s regulatory framework. It covers space identification, hazard assessment, training, written procedures, atmospheric monitoring, ventilation, respiratory protection, lockout and piping isolation. Standby duties, rescue planning and entry permits accompany sample procedures, a worked permit and ventilation troubleshooting guidance.
- Undated
Entry to enclosed space on emergency response rescue vessel Viking Islay with loss of 3 lives
Investigation of three fatal chain-locker entries aboard Viking Islay during North Sea rig support operations. Corrosion depleted atmospheric oxygen. The findings address unrecognised enclosed-space hazards, omitted permit measures, unsuitable gas monitoring equipment, unclear entry policy and inadequate training on emergency escape breathing devices, including their limitations during rescue.
- Undated
Equinor – Statfjord A – Investigation of incident involving fire and fumes in tank
Havtil investigates a fire during internal cleaning of Statfjord A’s inlet separator. Iron sulphide ignited on exposure to atmospheric oxygen. The report examines turnaround planning, work permits, undocumented job-analysis risks, firefighting preparedness and rescue arrangements, alongside failures to implement learning from earlier incidents. Two responders experienced smoke exposure.
- Undated
Fire in accommodation area on general cargo vessel Rosebank
This investigation synopsis describes a fire aboard Rosebank off Northumberland. Crew members attempted carbon dioxide extinguishing and boundary cooling, but the fire re-ignited and spread into accommodation. All five crew were evacuated by helicopter with smoke inhalation. It recommends reviewing permission to use smoke helmets or masks instead of SCBA sets.
- Undated
Fire in engine room of ro-ro passenger ferry Sally Star with 1 person injured
Investigation of an engine-room fire aboard Sally Star near Ramsgate, following failure of a low-pressure fuel flange. It examines fatigue and pressure transients, fuel leakage, halon retention, emergency electrical supply and firefighting arrangements. Findings address evacuation, communications and watchkeeping, with subsequent modifications and recommendations for testing and joint exercises.