Safety Flash
Near-miss: Potential use of petroleum-based grease in an oxygen-rich environment
Near-miss: Potential use of petroleum-based grease in an oxygen-rich environment
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 07/06
- Competence and TrainingDivingHazardous SubstancesHot Work and Fire
- Oxygen enrichment
- Inspection and maintenance
- Competence and trainingOperating and work procedures
Summary
A near-miss involved petroleum-based grease applied to a scrubber motor bearing during repair of diving decompression equipment. The grease was identified before refitting, and the motor was replaced. The flash explains the potential for self-ignition in oxygen-rich conditions and recommends item-specific maintenance instructions, qualified servicing and post-repair checks.
Classifications: Oxygen enrichment; oxygen enriched atmosphere.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Summary
Petroleum grease was nearly installed in oxygen-rich diving equipment, creating a potential self-ignition hazard and exposing servicing competence gaps.
IMCA SF 07/06. Themes: competence and training, diving, hazardous substances, hot work and fire.