Safety Flash
Burns caused by release of steam and boiling water from overheated pump
Burns caused by release of steam and boiling water from overheated pump
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 05/06
- Machinery and EquipmentPressure Systems
- Loss of containmentMechanical failurePressure systems
- Fluid transfer
- HosePumps
- Operating and work procedures
Summary
During filling and pigging, a centrifugal pump overheated and water flashed to steam, raising pressure and violently separating its suction hose from the fitting. A nearby worker suffered second-degree leg burns. The company recommended evaluating procedures and piping systems for high-volume centrifugal pumps to ensure fitness for purpose.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Fluid transfer; fluid loading; fluid offloading.
Classifications: Hose; flexible hose.
Classifications: Pumps.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Summary
An overheated centrifugal pump flashed water to steam, separating a hose and spraying boiling water that caused serious burns.
IMCA SF 05/06. Themes: machinery and equipment, pressure systems.