Safety Flash
UK HSE: Workers injured by unplanned release of mud slurry
UK HSE: Workers injured by unplanned release of mud slurry
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 17/20
- Control of WorkIsolationLine of FirePressure Systems
- Line of fireLoss of containmentPressure systems
- Inspection and maintenance
- Process pipework and pipelinesPumps
- Control of workEnergy and process isolationRisk assessment
Summary
Three contractors suffered multiple fractures when approximately 39 cubic metres of diluted slurry escaped during recirculation pump removal for maintenance. A blocked drain had prevented discharge of pressurised contents before work began. The flash reports inadequate risk assessment and failure to implement a safe system of work.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Pumps.
Classifications: Control of work; work control.
Classifications: Energy and process isolation; isolation; energy isolation.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Summary
An electricity power station company was prosecuted after three contractors were injured by a sudden release of water and sludge, while carrying out maintenance work
IMCA SF 17/20. Themes: control of work, isolation, line of fire, pressure systems.