Safety Alert
Exploding Ball Valve Results in Near Miss
Exploding Ball Valve Results in Near Miss
- IADC
- Safety Alert
- IADC Alert 12-23
- ExplosionPressure Systems
- ExplosionLine of fireMechanical failure
- Hot work
- Valve
Read at IADCOpens the publisher’s page on iadc.org
Summary
A near-miss alert describes a rig welder cutting a mild steel fitting from a brass ball valve using an oxy-acetylene torch. After cutting finished, an explosion propelled a threaded valve section across the lease. It struck the ground approximately 8 m from the bench, then travelled another 12 m and dented a cargo container.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Hot work; welding and cutting.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
IADC Alert 12-23. Themes: explosion, pressure systems.