Safety Alert
Safety notice to act as a reminder of the phenomenon of condensate induced water hammer
Safety notice to act as a reminder of the phenomenon of condensate induced water hammer
- HSE
- Safety Alert
- STSU2-2019
- Pressure SystemsProcess Safety
- Loss of containmentPressure systemsRegulation and legislation
- Inspection and maintenance
- Process pipework and pipelines
- Preventive maintenance
Summary
HSE’s notice explains condensate-induced water hammer in existing steam systems following a steam release that injured three people. Early investigation findings suggest a pressure-boundary failure potentially caused by water hammer. It highlights drainage, steam-trap maintenance and statutory responsibilities, and recommends considering SAFed’s five-point action plan.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Regulation and legislation; safety legislation; regulatory requirements.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Summary
The alert reminds dutyholders of hazards associated with condensate-induced water hammer.
STSU2-2019. Themes: pressure systems, process safety.