Safety Flash
Near-miss during connector pressure tests
Near-miss during connector pressure tests
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 01/04
- Control of WorkDivingPressure Systems
- Line of firePressure systems
- Diving operationsPressure testing
- Process pipework and pipelinesValve
- Operating and work proceduresRisk assessment
- Subsea
Summary
A diver’s hydraulic fitting blew off during removal following a successful connector pressure test, despite a zero surface pressure reading. Trapped annulus pressure was reported; poppet failure was considered the most likely cause. The company proposed a tee and needle-valve check to confirm ambient pressure before hose disconnection.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Diving operations; diving; commercial diving.
Classifications: Pressure testing; hydrostatic testing; pneumatic testing.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Subsea; underwater worksite.
Summary
Entrained pressure caused a hydraulic test fitting to eject when disconnected underwater after a successful pressure test.
IMCA SF 01/04. Themes: control of work, diving, pressure systems.