Safety Flash
Diver injury using cavitation blaster
Diver injury using cavitation blaster
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 06/07
- DivingPersonal Protective EquipmentPressure Systems
- Line of firePressure systems
- Diving operations
- Hand toolsPersonal protective equipment
- Risk assessment
Summary
A diver removing marine growth suffered a forearm seawater injection injury from a cavitation blaster’s retro jet after trigger reapplication caused kickback. The risk assessment missed this hazard. Manufacturer-recommended gloves were not worn, but their protective effectiveness was unclear. The manufacturer repositioned the nozzle, with examination planned before reuse.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Diving operations; diving; commercial diving.
Classifications: Hand tools; hand-held tools; handheld tools.
Classifications: Personal protective equipment; PPE; personal protection equipment.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Summary
A Member has reported that a diver sustained a high pressure water injection injury whilst using a recently developed 4500 psi cavitation water blaster.
IMCA SF 06/07. Themes: diving, personal protective equipment, pressure systems.