Safety Flash
Fire extinguisher fails during pressure testing
Fire extinguisher fails during pressure testing
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 25/23
- Hot Work and FireInspection and MaintenancePressure Systems
- Ageing, life extension and obsolescenceMechanical failurePressure systems
- Inspection and maintenancePressure testing
- Pressure vessel
- Competence and trainingPreventive maintenance
Summary
A 13-year-old, 5 kg CO2 fire extinguisher rated to 200 bar failed at 196 bar during a scheduled hydrostatic test intended to reach 300 bar. Nobody was harmed. The flash discusses ageing and integrity, alongside actions concerning maintenance reviews, age-sensitive testing plans, inspection records and personnel training.
Classifications: Ageing, life extension and obsolescence.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Pressure testing; hydrostatic testing; pneumatic testing.
Classifications: Pressure vessel; pressure vessels.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Summary
5kg CO2 fire extinguisher rated to 200 bar failed during 300 bar hydrostatic pressure testing
IMCA SF 25/23. Themes: hot work and fire, inspection and maintenance, pressure systems.