Safety Flash
US Coast Guard Safety Alert 07/17 – CO₂ hazards
US Coast Guard Safety Alert 07/17 – CO₂ hazards
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 26/17
- Competence and TrainingControl of WorkHazardous SubstancesHot Work and Fire
- Hazardous substancesLoss of containment
- Inspection and maintenance
- Gas cylinder
- Competence and trainingFunctional testingOperating and work proceduresSafety communication
- Marine industry
- Vessel
Summary
This safety flash describes two vessel incidents involving carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing systems. Incorrect heat-actuator testing left a chief mate unconscious, while servicing primed another system for release and personnel accounting missed an inspector. Recommendations emphasise evaluated competence, understanding test steps, pre-test communication and reliable personnel accountability.
Classifications: Hazardous substances; hazardous chemicals; chemical exposure.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Gas cylinder; compressed gas bottle; gas cylinders.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Functional testing; function test.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Safety communication; toolbox talk; toolbox talks.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.
Summary
During two recent vessel inspections Coast Guard marine inspectors participated in and witnessed occasions where the testing and maintenance of a CO2 system resulted in serious safety threats that could easily have led to loss of life.
IMCA SF 26/17. Themes: competence and training, control of work, hazardous substances, hot work and fire.