Safety Alert
Safety Alert 173 - Pig Launcher Explosion Results in Two Fatalities
Safety Alert 173 - Pig Launcher Explosion Results in Two Fatalities
- BSEE
- Safety Alert
- BSEE Safety Alert 173
- ExplosionPressure Systems
- ExplosionLine of firePressure systems
- Process pipework and pipelinesValve
- Job safety analysisOperating and work proceduresPressure relief
- Upstream oil and gas
- Offshore installation
Summary
Two operators died while opening a pig launcher during an attempted gas pipeline blowdown on a production platform. Trapped gas at 1,020 psi tore the lid from its hinge assembly. The alert recommends pressure relief valves and gauges, restricting lid-based blowdown to cases without practical alternatives, and analysing and documenting such operations.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
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: Offshore installation; offshore platform; offshore rig.
BSEE Safety Alert 173. Themes: explosion, pressure systems.