Safety Flash
MSF: Air cylinder failure in lifeboat
MSF: Air cylinder failure in lifeboat
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 08/21
- CorrosionEvacuation, Escape and RescueInspection and MaintenancePressure Systems
- CorrosionExplosionLine of firePressure systemsStructural and asset integrity
- Inspection and maintenancePressure testing
- Gas cylinder
- Marine industry
Summary
A lifeboat air cylinder failed without warning, injuring three nearby crew members with blast debris. Investigation remained ongoing, with galvanic corrosion and prolonged submersion in bilge water identified as preliminary suspected causes. The correspondent recommends annual inspections for corrosion or wall damage and hydrostatic pressure testing at five-year intervals.
Classifications: Corrosion; corrosion damage.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Structural and asset integrity; asset integrity; structural integrity.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Pressure testing; hydrostatic testing; pneumatic testing.
Classifications: Gas cylinder; compressed gas bottle; gas cylinders.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Summary
Three crew members working near a lifeboat were injured by blast debris when an air cylinder fitted in the lifeboat blew up without warning
IMCA SF 08/21. Themes: corrosion, evacuation, escape and rescue, inspection and maintenance, pressure systems.