Activity
Electrical Work
Installation, servicing or repair of electrical systems.
Newest 100 Documents
All 120 in search- 2026May
GEC Type VMX High Voltage Switchgear (including GEC Alsthom, Alstom or Areva T&D)
HSE safety notice addresses partial discharge and vacuum interrupter integrity in legacy GEC VMX high-voltage switchgear. Following a disruptive circuit-breaker failure involving arcing and fire, it recommends checking applicable design modifications, maintenance records and substation environmental conditions, alongside discharge surveys, integrity testing and revised access risk assessments.
- 202615 Apr
UK HSE: electrician seriously injured on onshore wind farm
An electrician sustained life-changing injuries during substation maintenance at an onshore wind farm. The investigation identified departure from a prepared switching programme and inadequate checking and change approval processes. The flash highlights safe work systems, management of change, coordination of parallel tasks, electrical-work review and supervision.
- 202631 Mar
Offshore Inspection Guide Electrical Power Systems
An inspection guide for assessing electrical power systems and duty holder compliance. It addresses generation, distribution, protection, portable equipment and safe electrical work, with condition-monitoring methods including partial-discharge analysis, thermography and insulating-oil assessment. Performance scoring supports regulatory intervention planning; ATEX equipment is excluded.
- 20266 Feb
BSEE Safety Alert 514 - Verify Megger Testing and Termination Prep to Prevent Seawater Pump Motor Fires
A seawater pump motor fire followed termination repairs. Findings identified insulation testing at a lower voltage than required, resistance below the work-pack threshold and inadequate semiconductor-layer preparation. BSEE recommends considering adherence to repair instructions, verification of test arrangements and results, correctly rated testers and worker understanding of resistance units.
- 202612 Jan
BSEE: arc flash incident – is the wire still live?
An offshore cable installation led to an arc flash when an electrician repositioned exposed wiring with non-insulated pliers inside an energised cabinet. The flash caused a minor thermal burn and panel damage. Findings highlight inadequate task analysis and communication; lessons address voltage verification, permits, suitable protective equipment and closed-loop coordination.
- 20252 Oct
Worker suffered eye injuries in electric arc incident
A vessel electro-technical officer suffered light eye burns from an electrical arc while disconnecting a shore power cable that appeared still energised. Initial findings identified inadequate vessel–quayside communication and documentation. The flash emphasises voltage testing, isolation, improved communication, risk assessments and toolbox talks.
- 202530 Sep
BSEE Safety Alert 506 - Arc Flash Incident Highlights Critical Need for Voltage Verification During Offshore Electrical Maintenance
An offshore platform cable installation resulted in an arc flash and a minor thermal burn when an electrician used non-insulated pliers inside an energised motor control centre. The alert identifies deficient task analysis and communication, recommending de-energised working where feasible, insulated tools, arc-rated protection, coordinated cable movements and competency assurance.
- 202511 Sep
BSEE Safety Alert 507 - Improper Use of Equipment and Tools Increases Risk of Fires and Explosions Offshore
BSEE identifies recurring offshore tool misuse involving live electrical circuits, explosive atmospheres and high-pressure or high-temperature systems. Cases include unsuitable hand tools and a plumber’s plug used during welding. Recommendations address competence evaluation, tool ratings and tracking, maintenance, pre-work audits, qualified inspections and authority to halt unsafe work.
- 202531 Jul
Near miss: High voltage arc inside tether termination manifold
A dislodged HPU conductor caused arcing inside an ROV tether termination manifold. Subsequent checks identified reduced insulation resistance and gas, whose origin was unconfirmed without testing. The flash examines unapproved termination lugs and records re-termination, system testing and recommendations to assess crimping tools and review procedures and gas-venting precautions.
- 20253 Jul
Near miss: worker suffers electric shock
A vessel crew member received an electric shock during oil clean-up on a crane pedestal after brushing an exposed, energised cable. The worker was unharmed. Failed assurance following yard work left disconnected cables live. Actions address electrical commissioning oversight, preferably assigning work to company electricians rather than third-party contractors.
- 202523 Jan
Accident to chief engineer on board motor yacht Baton Rouge with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a chief engineer’s fatal electrocution during ventilation damper actuator replacement aboard Baton Rouge in Antigua. It examines work on a live circuit, unused permit arrangements, heat, inadequate monitoring and rescue planning, and conflicting enclosed-space definitions. Management revised its procedures; the report makes no recommendations.
- 202314 Dec
BSEE Safety Alert 478 - Inadequately Maintained Electrical Connections and Compromised Wiring Integrity (6)
This alert examines three electrical incidents involving a loose generator cable connection, damaged heat-trace insulation with improper grounding, and rainwater ingress into generator wiring. It recommends that operators consider routine maintenance, training, emergency-response rehearsals, improved cable procedures, lockout/tagout reinforcement and periodic infrared inspections.
- 20237 Dec
Accidental discharge of condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing system on beam trawler Resurgam with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal accidental aerosol fire-extinguishing system discharge during installation aboard Resurgam in Newlyn harbour. It examines electrical commissioning, generator placement, toxic combustion products and impaired escape. Laboratory trials inform analysis of inhalation hazards, while findings address installer competence, regulatory approval, contractor coordination and rescue arrangements.
- 20236 Dec
UK MAIB: Electrician injured in explosion
An electrician suffered serious burns aboard a ship after a spanner bridged live switchboard conductors, causing a short-circuit and arc flash. The flash highlights unfamiliarity with the circuit-breaker assembly, disregarded instructions, unplanned work without a permit or lockout/tagout, and unsuitable tools and protective equipment.
- 202327 Feb
Battery explosion during routine maintenance
A harbour tug’s Chief Engineer sustained minor injuries when a spanner inadvertently short-circuited a battery during preparations to replace a failed disconnect switch. The flash discusses electrical isolation, terminal protection, suitable tools and protective equipment, alongside increased maintenance inspection and consideration of chargers with temperature sensors.
- 20221 Nov
Failure to plan properly: electrician sustains serious burns (UK HSE)
An electrician suffered serious burns at a supermarket warehouse when his metal spanner contacted a live busbar, causing an electrical explosion. Generator connection work alongside high-voltage maintenance lacked adequate planning and contractor coordination. The flash highlights failures to stop the circuit supply and appoint a competent person to organise the work.
- 202220 Jun
High potential: electric shock near miss
An engineer received a minor shock while troubleshooting a faulty 690V motor using a multimeter. The junction-box cover touched one phase during replacement; no injury was confirmed. The flash examines an unassessed change to live electrical work, missing isolation and authorisation, inadequate gloves, and subsequent requirements for crew discussion before work.
- 202231 May
USCG: Exceeding electrical duty rating can lead to failure
A rescue-boat winch continued hoisting after its motor contactor fused because its duty rating was exceeded. Crew isolated power before the boat contacted the davit. The flash relays USCG recommendations to check contactor condition, compare duty ratings with recovery practices, verify safety-device design and train operators in power isolation.
- 20228 Apr
UK HSE: worker died following fall from crane platform
An electrician repairing gantry-crane wiring died after a walkway access panel failed beneath him. This safety flash summarises HSE findings on neglected panel maintenance, previous weld repair and the absence of evidence that the panel had been safely replaced and secured. It highlights risks from unsecured access panels.
- 20221 Apr
Safety Alert 436 - Arc Flash Injury During Generator Hookup
An electrician sustained a second-degree arm burn while reconnecting a diesel backup generator to a live bus. The alert identifies shortcomings in task hazard analysis, arc-flash protection and lockout documentation, with breaker defects contributing to the incident. It presents measures for operators and contractors to consider, including assessments, qualification checks and breaker condition reviews.
- 202210 Mar
BSEE Identifies Maintenance and Certification Issues of Rental Generators
BSEE reviews rental generator incidents during start-up and commissioning on the US Outer Continental Shelf in 2021. Failures involved fires, arc flashes and work stoppages. The alert discusses degraded windings, moisture ingress and corrosion, and recommends operators consider certification checks, commissioning assurance, insulation resistance testing and personnel competence measures.
- 202228 Feb
Permit to Work and Isolation procedure not followed
An electrician replacing fuses in a live 930V DC vessel drive cabinet experienced an arc flash without injury. The flash examines absent work permits, unsecured and untagged isolation, inadequate procedures and failure to check isolation before work. Actions focus on reviewing work controls and following workplace instructions.
- 202210 Feb
NTSB: Engine Failure leads to fire aboard offshore supply vessel
This safety flash summarises an NTSB finding on a generator engine failure aboard an anchored offshore supply vessel. Bearing seizure was identified as the probable cause of rod ejection, oil release and an engine-room fire. Crew removed fuel and oxygen sources, containing the fire without injuries or pollution.
- 2022Feb
Maintenance of industrial uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems
This safety notice examines industrial UPS failures at onshore major hazard establishments, including disrupted emergency power, localised fires and plant shutdowns. It identifies inadequate maintenance information, shorter component lifetimes and outdated firmware, and calls for suppliers to review information and users to update maintenance arrangements using current manufacturer revisions.
- 202125 Nov
Use of damaged electrical equipment by dock workers
Third-party welders preparing anchor sea-fastening work aboard a vessel in port had damaged wiring connected without a plug. Vessel crew stopped the job, and the ETO repaired the wiring and fitted a suitable plug. The flash highlights omitted visual inspections and possible lessons for subcontractor oversight during busy port calls and mobilisations.
- 202116 Nov
Electric Arc Flash Management
This bulletin examines arc flash hazards and their management on offshore petroleum facilities, drawing on incident notifications and inspection findings. It explains risks during isolation and proving equipment dead, including low-voltage hazards, and discusses engineering measures, procedural controls, training and arc-rated protective equipment alongside operators’ statutory duties.
- 202128 Oct
UK HSE: Lubrication of circuit breakers – safety notice
This flash summarises an HSE notice following an HV circuit breaker explosion and fire. It examines unsuitable cleaning and lubrication products, possible stiction and solvent evaporation, and calls for maintenance procedures to be reviewed against manufacturers’ instructions for product selection, application and servicing intervals.
- 202122 Sep
Electrician suffered flash burn to hand
An electrician suffered a hand flash burn while checking insulation on a 690-volt bus bar aboard a vessel in dry dock. The switchboard became live after an unguarded status switch changed and the power management system closed a breaker. Lessons address isolation, shipyard work permits, supervision and communication.
- 2021Sep
Lubrication of circuit breakers
HSE warns that unsuitable lubricants can impair high- and low-voltage circuit breaker mechanisms. An investigated failure may have involved lubricant-related stiction. The notice calls for maintenance procedures to follow manufacturers’ instructions, distinguishing cleaning products from lubricants and selecting compatible products at appropriate intervals. LV MCCBs and MCBs are excluded.
- 202131 Aug
UK HSE: Poorly maintained electrical installation caused fatality
An IMCA safety flash describes a fatal electrocution during planned air-compressor maintenance and the subsequent HSE prosecution. Findings included inadequate electrical-contact controls, absent testing and visual inspection since installation, and an unidentified incorrect isolating switch. The account highlights correct isolation points, training, supervision and safe systems of work.
- 202112 Jul
Overheated transformer activated fire alarm
A vessel’s replacement boiler installation used an incorrectly rated transformer, which overheated, tripped the breaker and triggered the fire alarm. The flash describes evacuation and investigation, calculation errors, and combustible storage near electrical equipment. It recommends current checks during initial energisation, transformer-rating reviews and electrical-cabinet inspections.
- 20219 Feb
Electrical Fire Damages Equipment in Motor Control Center
An offshore platform motor control centre fire followed circuit-breaker engagement. Analysis identified loose or damaged bus-bar fasteners, damaged insulation and dust that likely caused an arc. BSEE recommends considering inspection and maintenance procedures, thermography, insulation-resistance and polarisation-index testing, torque checks and component replacement schedules.
- 202016 Dec
LTI: Person injured by a battery explosion on vessel deck
A charged battery for portable subsea magnetic particle inspection equipment exploded during deck checks, projecting its housing lid and injuring a worker. Inadequate post-charge venting allowed an explosive atmosphere to develop; the precise ignition cause remained inconclusive. Lessons address venting times, charging instructions, toolbox talks, protective equipment and emergency response.
- 202010 Nov
Two incidents with electrical installations with potential for a fire
Two electrical incidents concern fat-contaminated galley sockets causing an earth fault and potential fire, and a minor machinery-space fire associated with lost terminal continuity. The flash describes socket isolation, lockout and cleaning, dry chemical powder extinguishing, and routine checks of electrical connections and terminations during planned maintenance.
- 202030 Sep
Risk of Fires from Adjustable Speed Drives ASDs
This alert reviews adjustable speed drive fires on the Outer Continental Shelf in 2019 involving harmonic currents, short circuits and moisture ingress. BSEE recommends operators and contractors consider monitoring, competency-based training, protective installation environments, electrical protection, harmonic mitigation and earthing, supported by documented procedures and checks.
- 202028 Sep
US Coast Guard: Addressing hazardous area electrical issues
This flash summarises US Coast Guard findings concerning certified electrical installations in vessel hazardous areas. Incorrect installation, missing or degraded components and unfamiliarity with standards compromised protection. The alert strongly recommends IEC-aligned training, periodic inspection and maintenance by competent personnel, competent repairs and regulatory approval of system modifications.
- 202025 Aug
Electrical shock from containerised portable office
An employee received a mild electric shock while tidying a containerised office, touching live wiring hidden beneath a desk. The cable remained after equipment removal during storage. The flash identifies missed checks and absent electrical verification, and describes isolation, inspection and formal instructions for container fit-out and modification.
- 202026 Feb
High potential near miss: Dropped object from turbine tower
A safety flash describes 17 kg of chain falling 84 m inside a wind turbine tower during high-voltage cable installation, without injury. The investigation identified unimplemented learning from an earlier incident and a distracted spotter. Actions address crew competence, dissemination of incident learning and stopping work when spotting cannot continue.
- 202019 Feb
Short circuit on 440V AC bus bars – arc flash
A crewman repairing an earth bonding cable in a 440V distribution panel caused a short circuit and arc flash when its trailing end contacted a live bus bar. Burns were reported subsequently. The flash examines unauthorised task changes, inadequate terminal insulation, supervision, risk assessment and delayed incident reporting.
- 20198 Nov
Safety Alert 370 Overcharged Battery in Non-Ventilated Box
An RTU panel exploded after an overcharged 12-volt battery generated hydrogen in an unventilated enclosure. An unsuitable electrical component was the likely ignition source. No injuries or nearby equipment damage occurred. BSEE recommends operators consider compliant battery enclosures, installation arrangements preventing hazardous hydrogen accumulation, and electrical components rated for their area classification.
- 201923 Aug
LTI – Fall from height
A subcontracted service engineer returned to a vessel mast to retrieve tools without fall protection. During final radar testing, the rotating antenna struck him, causing a fall onto a lifeboat roof and multiple fractures. The flash highlights communication failures, subcontractor oversight, job preparation and safety culture.
- 201913 May
Near miss: Fire of electrical distribution board during diving operations
A barge lost electrical power during air diving at 18 msw when breaker removal created a short circuit and bus-bar flash fire. The diver was recovered using backup power without injury. The flash identifies failures in isolation, lockout/tagout, work permitting and communication between simultaneous electrical and diving operations.
- 201830 Oct
Electrician received electric shock from a bare cable
An electrician suffered an electric shock when his hand touched an exposed live cable end while installing cable in a vessel cable tray. The wire was incorrectly labelled as spare. The flash describes a cable verification campaign and recommends work-area inspections, anomaly reporting and appropriate permits and isolations.
- 20182 Oct
Electric Arc Incident
During vessel mobilisation, exposed conductors in an ROV control cabin arced when energised, without injury or equipment damage. A temporary workshop power modification had not been formally documented or communicated, and the cable was not correctly reinstated. Lessons address change management, job briefings, pre-mobilisation checks and electrical testing procedures.
- 20183 Aug
Safety Alert 339 - Running of Gas Sensing Line in Cable Tray Leads to Fire
An electrical wiring defect on a Gulf of Mexico production platform generated an arc that damaged a gas pressure sensing line sharing the cable tray. Leaking fluid ignited without causing injuries. BSEE recommends operators consider inspecting trays, separating non-electrical piping, reviewing installation procedures and ensuring installation competence.
- 201820 Jul
Crewman received 415v electric shock
A crewman suffered an electric shock while assessing cable routing for an ROV launch and recovery system supply. He touched exposed live wires before the distribution board was isolated. The flash identifies undocumented transformer removal, absent voltage verification and inadequate handover, with lessons on maintenance records and communication.
- 201814 Jun
Recent prosecutions by the UK HSE
Two UK HSE prosecution summaries describe a worker crushed during vehicle unloading and two workers burnt in an electrical flashover after bypassing a fuse-panel interlock. Findings include inadequate work systems, unloading training and driver briefing, alongside absent electrical safety rules, permits and risk assessment.
- 2018Feb
Electrical PINCs
A platform electrical-system compliance checklist links inspection questions to federal regulatory authorities, API recommended practices and enforcement actions. It covers hazardous-area classification, battery installation, lighting and portable devices, wiring and grounding, explosionproof and pressurised equipment, electrical lockout/tagout procedures and transformer nameplate information.
- 201724 Oct
Potential for fatalities from electrical incidents
This alert reviews three electrical dangerous occurrences notified within less than 90 days, with no injuries or cardiac irregularities reported. It identifies failures in cable identification, isolation confirmation, proving dead, permits, task analysis, procedures and competence, and sets out requirements for safe electrical work.
- 20166 Dec
First aid injury: Electric shock
An ROV supervisor contacted a conductor in the wrong transformer cabinet during fault finding, suffering an electric shock and hand burn. The alternate system received 40V DC despite its breakers being off and potentially held high-voltage capacitive energy. Lessons address isolation, cabinet access, system familiarisation and testing before touch.
- 20161 Feb
Use of Barrier Glands in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres to meet IEC 60079:14_2013 (Edition 5)
HSE warns that revised cable-gland selection provisions may allow fire propagation through cable sheaths after multiple ignitions. The notice compares IEC and British Standards and directs duty holders to use the British Standard’s informative National Annex as relevant good practice when assessing barrier-gland requirements in potentially explosive atmospheres.
- 20152 Oct
Electrical shock – Failure of isolations and barriers
A crew member received an electrical shock while stripping insulation during replacement motor work. The isolation omitted a space-heater supply in the test position, and a generic motor drawing had been used. The flash stresses equipment-specific drawings in permit-to-work and lockout/tagout procedures when determining isolation.
- 20152 Oct
Electrician fatally electrocuted
An electrician at a land-based oil installation was fatally electrocuted by an arc-blast after climbing onto a pole-mounted substation platform, and also fell from height. The flash identifies deficient risk assessment, permit review, maintenance and weekend safety culture, with corrective measures addressing equipment, supervision, lone working and documentation.
- 2015Oct
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
Technical and legal guidance accompanies the Electricity at Work Regulations, explaining duties and precautions across operational voltages. It addresses electrical shock, arcing and explosion hazards, equipment suitability, maintenance and competence. Detailed discussion distinguishes switching off from isolation, explains proving dead and considers justification and precautions for live work.
- 2015Sep
Keeping electrical switchgear safe
Guidance for owners and operators of three-phase switchgear rated from 1 kV to 33 kV AC. It covers safe operation, competence, permits, maintenance and protection testing for oil, air, vacuum and SF6 equipment. Diagnostic methods and aged-equipment assessments support decisions on retention, refurbishment, retrofit or replacement.
- 201528 Aug
Near-miss (HIPO): Engine started and running whilst crew member working on shaft generator
A crew member escaped without injury when a vessel’s propeller shaft began rotating during monthly carbon-brush maintenance beneath the shaft generator. The flash examines absent isolation and permits, inadequate supervision, and failures to communicate a change in vessel operations. Lessons address work authorisation, isolation, coordination and stopping unsafe tasks.
- 201516 Jul
MSF: Lithium battery contents in eyes
An offshore repair of an electronic welder’s mask involved manually soldering a replacement lithium-ion battery. The battery overheated and sprayed its contents into the officer’s eyes. The flash identifies absent PPE, insufficient cooling time and inadequate risk assessment. Prompt rinsing with water was followed by no permanent eye harm.
- 201523 Jun
‘Routine’ task, non-routine result: Batteries stored sideways leak battery acid
A near miss involved acid leaking through wet cell battery vents after an electrician stored boxed motion reference unit batteries on their sides to save floor space. The flash identifies missing orientation and hazard labels, recommends clear container labelling, and suggests considering dry cell replacements.
- 2015Jun
Electrical test equipment for use on low voltage electrical systems
Guidance on selecting and using electrical test equipment for low-voltage systems, addressing shock and arc-burn hazards. It covers probe insulation, fused leads, measurement categories, voltage detectors and multimeter settings, alongside proving dead, checking detector function, risk assessment and equipment examination. Dead testing is preferred wherever possible.
- 201520 Mar
Electric shock incident
An electrician received a 220V AC shock while working on a 24V remote input/output module in joystick electrical equipment, sustaining minor left-hand burns. The flash describes the current path through an anti-static earth strap, inadequate personal risk assessment and the need to verify isolation using a voltage tester and compatible proving unit.
- 201425 Nov
Near-miss: Inadequate insulation of 690V bus bars
A vessel switchboard survey found exposed 690V bus bars and incompletely insulated wire terminations after breakers and their bases had been removed. The flash describes earlier breaker failures, inadequate spare-parts management and missed inspection findings, highlighting shortcomings in change management, technical oversight, handovers and contractor supervision.
- 20148 Sep
440V electrical shock incident
A technician received a 440V electric shock while investigating an ROV power distribution unit aboard a vessel, without harm or medical follow-up. The flash identifies unrecognised dual supplies, missing labelling and cover, inadequate familiarisation, and deficient work authorisation and risk assessment. Lessons address supervision, work control and equipment acceptance.
- 2014Aug
Ignition Sources — Process Safety Beacon, August 2014
This bulletin explains why preventing flammable mixtures must be complemented by ignition-source control when equipment or procedures fail. It emphasises work permits, emergency actions during releases, hazardous-area classification and restrictions on portable electronics. It also highlights hot surfaces as potential ignition sources, particularly for materials with low autoignition temperatures.
- 201419 Apr
Safety Alert 309 - Misuse of Beam Clamps as Ground
BSEE warns that beam clamps used as external equipment earthing conductors on Outer Continental Shelf facilities could create fire and electrical hazards. The alert explains their approved support function, discusses effective fault-current paths under API guidance, and advises operators and contractors to review facilities against the cited practices.
- 201413 Mar
Dropped fluorescent light tube
During lighting replacement in an onshore office, an unsecured fluorescent tube rolled off a cabinet and shattered on the ground while a worker climbed a ladder. Nobody was injured. The flash identifies inadequate risk assessment and describes adapting transport trolleys to store and secure tubes and maintenance supplies.
- 2013Sep
Maintaining portable electrical equipment
Guidance on maintaining Class I and Class II portable electrical equipment through user checks, formal visual inspections and combined inspection and testing. It explains competence requirements, risk-based maintenance intervals, fault withdrawal, cable repair and replacement, and legal duties, distinguishing suggested initial frequencies from mandatory requirements.
- 20134 Apr
High potential near-miss during equipment testing
A forklift used to tension an electrical cable remained connected to a worktable after testing. A subsequent operator drove away, dragging the table approximately one metre before stopping. Nobody was injured. Findings highlighted missing procedures and job safety analysis, poor communication and omitted vehicle checks.
- 20134 Apr
Near-miss: Exposed live electrical cable
A crewman found an exposed live lighting cable sparking against a vessel bulkhead after dry docking. A contractor had removed the flood lamp outside the agreed scope without permits or electrical isolation. Findings highlighted inadequate planning, supervision and communication, and failure to follow management-of-change procedures.
- 201225 Jun
Near-miss: Live electrical cable
During contractor equipment demobilisation aboard a vessel, removal of lockout/tagout re-energised a disconnected cable at 440 volts. Its ends touched the chassis and arced near an employee’s hand; nobody was injured. The flash identifies communication, permit, isolation verification, multiple-key lockout, breaker labelling and electrical drawing deficiencies.
- 20124 Apr
Near-miss: 220v cable not isolated during work
A vessel maintenance near-miss left exposed 220 V wiring after a light fitting was disconnected following incorrect multimeter testing. The flash discusses isolation checks and consultation failures, notes further fleet incidents, and sets out actions concerning authorised isolation, dedicated voltage indicators and tester checks before and after proving dead.
- 20129 Mar
Safety Alert 300 - Unplanned Emergency Disconnect Sequence (EDS) of the Lower Marine Riser Package
An unplanned emergency disconnect occurred during powered troubleshooting of a semisubmersible rig’s BOP control panel, activating shear rams and disconnecting the lower marine riser package. Completion fluid escaped through failed-open valves. The alert distinguishes network faults from the activation mechanism and recommends job safety analysis, power disconnection, supervisory consultation and ribbon cable retention.
- 2012Jan
What happens when the lights go out? — Process Safety Beacon, January 2012
A mistaken circuit-breaker operation briefly interrupted PLC power, leaving a process running with partial controls and overloading a vent scrubber with toxic material. The bulletin emphasises assessing combined utility-failure effects, understanding device failure states, clearly labelling electrical controls, verifying operation and practising emergency procedures.
- 2011Nov
Fire in unaccompanied refrigerated trailer unit on main vehicle deck of ro-ro passenger ferry Commodore Clipper
Investigation of a refrigerated-trailer fire aboard Commodore Clipper during passage to Portsmouth. It examines reefer connector assembly, high-resistance electrical faults, alarm response and the limitations of vehicle-deck drenching. Cargo access, accumulated firefighting water, passenger disembarkation and inter-agency coordination complicated the response. Annexes document electrical examination and material ignition testing.
- 201127 Oct
Failure of pressure washer
A portable Karcher pressure washer failed during post-maintenance testing, injuring a technician. A corroded, unserviceable pressure relief valve and defective boiler-regulating switch allowed overpressure to rupture the heating coil, ejecting the boiler hatch. The flash recommends inspection of similar devices and their inclusion in planned maintenance.
- 201127 Jul
Electrician received electric shock
A vessel electrician received an electric shock while investigating a faulty running machine supplied through a 220v/110v transformer. A cable with two male connections exposed live pins during disconnection. No injuries were identified. The flash highlights isolation before testing, equipment inspection and risk assessment before installation and use.
- 201121 Mar
Safety Alert 293 - Platform RTU Battery Charger Fire
An offshore platform fire involved an original RTU battery charger left connected after replacement. Internal shorting of old nickel cadmium batteries ignited released fluids; the breaker was found on. The alert recommends stored-energy isolation, battery inspection and maintenance, removal of unused batteries, and coordination of third-party work.
- 201027 Sep
Lost time injury (LTI): Severed tendon
During cable preparation aboard a vessel, side cutters slipped and punctured a worker’s middle finger, severing a tendon. The flash examines unsuitable tool use, cutting towards the hand and glove dexterity concerns. Corrective actions included reviewing tools and gloves and encouraging last-minute personal risk assessments.
- 20108 Apr
Crewman received 440V electric shock
An electrician received a 440V shock while reconnecting power to temporary living quarters during refit work at a repair yard. The supply had not been isolated, and the cable had a live male end. The company changed socket arrangements and reinforced lockout and tagout procedures.
- 2010Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2010
This digest presents lessons from merchant shipping, commercial fishing and small-craft accidents. Cases examine watchkeeping fatigue, groundings, collisions, machinery and propulsion-control failures, fires, hazardous cargo vapours and waterborne casualties. Discussions address navigation aids, respiratory protection, emergency drills, communication and adequate rest, with findings qualified as tentative.
- 2009Oct
Laptop computer charging trolleys
This safety alert addresses electric shock risks from stored charge on laptop charging trolley plug pins and damage to trailing cables. It explains conformity requirements and representative product testing, with conditional precautions for adult-only use or possible pupil access, including switched sockets, alternative connectors, cable storage and visual checks.
- 20089 Oct
Risk of electrocution during routine work
A technician aboard a dive support vessel received a slight electric shock while dismantling a plug to reroute a live 440 V three-phase winch cable through a sea-fastening mousehole. No injuries were reported. The investigation identified missing work permits, isolation, risk assessment and toolbox discussion, alongside inadequate induction and supervision.
- 200819 Mar
Unauthorised modification to electrical plant equipment
Unauthorised wiring changes to two diver camera, light and power surface control units routed mains voltage to normally low-voltage outputs, compromised interchangeability and invalidated drawings. The flash describes restoration to the company standard, authorisation requirements for modifications, future checks and investigation of a possible low-voltage remote hat-light control.
- 200727 Apr
Serious Injury Results from Fall from Ladder
A worker maintaining light fittings fell while descending an extension ladder with tools in both hands and only a fingertip grip. His foot slipped from a rung and he could not retain his hold. He landed on his buttocks, struck his head, lost consciousness and fractured four lower-back vertebrae.
- 2005May
MAIB Safety Digest 2005 — Fishing edition
This fishing safety digest presents accident narratives and preventive lessons on vessel alterations, stability, flooding, fires, collisions and crew injuries. Cases examine bilge alarms, pumping, watertight subdivision, winch controls and watchkeeping. Lessons also address emergency preparedness, accessible lifesaving equipment, electrical installation and risk assessment around open hatches.
- 20043 Jul
Electrical Troubleshooting Incident
An electrician investigating the electrical supply to a main engine-cooling pump tested fuses inside a motor control centre using a multimeter on its resistance scale. The meter probe shorted across two fuses, causing flash burns to the electrician’s hands and a consequential rig blackout.
- 20031 Aug
Electrical safety
This safety flash responds to reports of several electrical safety incidents. It identifies shock, arc burns and electrical fires as hazards of energised equipment, and recommends applicable work permits, stored-energy lockout/tagout and a pre-work job safety assessment or toolbox talk to determine safeguards and protective equipment.
- 200323 Jul
Safety Alert 17 - Electrical Wiring Inspection And Maintenance
Two electrical fires on Pacific OCS platforms involved cracked control-panel wiring insulation and a failed generator rotor winding. Neither caused injuries. Against a background of ageing equipment, the alert recommends that operators consider periodic visual inspection, insulation-resistance testing and thermal imaging, with maintenance where problems are detected.
- 20033 Jul
Attempted service to microwave results in fatal electrocution
An experienced electrician died while attempting to service a microwave with the power on, despite prominent warnings. Current passed through his body to ground via an adjacent ice-making machine. The company subsequently prohibited on-site repairs of domestic equipment containing high-voltage components and directed repair through authorised vendors.
- 20037 Jun
Attempted Service to Microwave Results in a Fatal Electrocution
An experienced electrician died while attempting to service a microwave despite warnings and a prominent high-voltage label. He applied a tester across disconnected leads with the power on. The alert reports that current passed through his body to ground via a neighbouring ice-making machine, with burn marks confirming the path.
- 20021 Jul
Warning signs not respected
An electrician bypassed scaffold prohibition signals aboard a semi-submersible crane vessel while accessing a J-lay tower to install lighting. The unsecured scaffold overturned, causing a 13.8 m fall and arm and leg fractures; scaffold pieces injured another worker. Corrective actions included toolbox talks, clearer signs and immediate dismantling of unnecessary scaffolds.
- 20001 Apr
Electrical flash burns
An electrician on an offshore installation sustained superficial flash burns while attempting to close a defective circuit breaker. A tool used in an unapproved override contacted live conductors, initiating an arcing fault. The company recommended reviewing undocumented practices, assessing override procedures and using all equipment design safety features.
- 200025 Jan
Safety Alert 15 - Electrical Cable Testing
A Pacific OCS platform fire followed insulation testing of a submersible pump power cable when grounding produced a spark that ignited escaping well-annulus gas. The alert recommends avoiding rig-floor testing, using purged rooms where feasible, requiring permits and continuous flammable-gas monitoring in non-purged environments, and reducing sparking through suitable instruments and capacitance discharge.
- 20001 Jan
Metrex M3610 multimeter incident
A technician suffered burns and eye-flash when a multimeter short-circuited during testing of an ROV’s 440-volt supply. Arcing occurred between the meter’s terminal inputs despite the correct scale setting and undamaged probes. Investigation found internal seawater and oily contamination; the blown main fuse also interrupted the drilling operation’s electrical supply.
- 19996 Jul
Third Party Electrocution
An alert describes a fatal electrocution on an offshore rig involving third-party equipment. A 480-volt, 63-amp supply cable had a four-prong male connector, while the portable hydraulic power unit had a female receptacle. An employee touched the live cable end during disconnection before power was shut off.
- Undated
UPS Capacitor Failure and Power Loss at Perdido Spar
Investigates a reported fire and power loss at Perdido Spar following UPS capacitor failure. Smoke detection triggered automatic shut-in and personnel mustered; the fire team saw no fire. Electrical troubleshooting identified inverter arcing before lockout and bypass. The report recommends replacing fans and capacitors on similar units.
- Undated
Arc Flash During Vapour Recovery Unit Cable Replacement
An investigation examines an arc flash during vapour recovery unit cable replacement on Pompano platform. A bandsaw cut the wrong, energised cable, causing equipment damage but no injuries or pollution. Findings address incorrect cable identification, missing verification, incomplete task hazard analysis and failures to provide and follow cable demolition procedures.
- Undated
Electrical Arc During Breaker Resetting and Switch Cover Reassembly
An investigation records an electrical arc during breaker resetting on Platform Habitat. An incompatible cover linkage prompted removal of the switch cover; a misaligned screw contacted a live lead during reassembly. Halon activation shut down the platform. No injuries occurred; corrective actions included a compatible breaker and electrical-safety communications.
- Undated
Platform Fire Involving Nickel Cadmium Batteries Connected to Unused Charger
Investigates a platform battery fire involving an unused charger left connected to old nickel cadmium batteries. Internal shorting ignited released battery fluids; generated gas prompted platform shut-in. Findings address uncertain breaker status, inadequate inspection and third-party coordination, with recommendations for isolation, stored-energy discharge, battery removal and maintenance.
- Undated
Arc Flash During Cleaning of Energised Motor Control Centre Busbars
An accident investigation examines an arc flash during cleaning of energised motor control centre busbars with aerosol solvent and a steel-bristled brush. Findings identify missing work planning, permits and lockout procedures, alongside inadequate protective equipment. Recommendations address cabinet reinstatement planning, safe work permits and cleaning only with the centre de-energised.
- Undated
Battery Explosion in Platform Communications Enclosure
BSEE investigates a battery explosion on the Amberjack platform. Replacing two batteries with one exposed the replacement to a hazardous overcharge, releasing hydrogen into an unventilated communications enclosure. Findings address unsuitable electrical component ratings, inadequate hazard analysis and limited personnel awareness. No injuries or pollution occurred.