Safety Alert
Safety Alert 327 - Failure to Properly Purge Compressors Leads to Explosions
Safety Alert 327 - Failure to Properly Purge Compressors Leads to Explosions
- BSEE
- Safety Alert
- BSEE Safety Alert 327
- ExplosionProcess Safety
- ExplosionProcess safety
- Inspection and maintenance
- Competence and trainingJob safety analysisOperating and work proceduresPreventive maintenance
- Upstream oil and gas
Summary
This alert describes two compressor start-up explosions involving inadequate purging. One injured a mechanic with flying debris; the other damaged a cooler and piping. Preliminary findings discuss panel logic, purging knowledge and job safety analysis. Recommendations address procedures, training, start-up permissives and manufacturer-directed maintenance.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Process safety; major accident hazards.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Job safety analysis; JSA; job hazard analysis; JHA.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.
Summary
The alert explains how inadequate compressor purging can result in explosions.
BSEE Safety Alert 327. Themes: explosion, process safety.