Equipment
Gas Cylinder
Portable containers of compressed or liquefied gas.
Newest 100 Documents
All 110 in search- 202628 Apr
BSEE Safety Alert 516 - BSEE Identifies Compressed Gas Cylinder Hazards During Risk-Based Inspections
Following reported cylinder-failure explosions, BSEE inspected 20 Gulf assets and identified gaps in cylinder marking knowledge, inspection programmes, maintenance and contractor assurance. The alert presents findings on storage, corrosion and recharging, and asks operators and contractors, where appropriate, to consider improved labelling, documented inspections, overpressure protection and training.
- 202617 Mar
Unsafe handling of gas cylinders
A Chief Mate identified unsecured compressed gas cylinders on the quayside before planned gas cutting and welding during vessel maintenance. The flash discusses contractor awareness, perceived time pressure and unavailable securing arrangements, highlighting approved racks, restraint, contractor coordination and crew confidence to stop unsafe work.
- 2026Mar
Shared G-PINCs (Mar 2026) — General
General regulatory inspection questions address facility identification, operational safety, approvals, incident reporting, engine safeguards and equipment marking. Welding and burning checks cover equipment condition, authorisation outside approved areas, fire-watch arrangements, gas surveillance and precautions around wells. Entries identify regulatory authorities and enforcement actions.
- 202518 Dec
Dropped object – Bailout cylinder inside diving bell
During saturation diving preparations aboard a vessel, an unsecured bailout set fell approximately 2.5 metres through the bell opening, striking the Transfer Under Pressure door. Nobody was injured; the cylinder was damaged. The flash identifies deficient securing and checks, and records replacement of S-hooks, formal instructions, revised hazard analyses and retraining.
- 202529 Apr
BSEE: Nitrogen cylinder rupture causing worker injuries and equipment damage
A nitrogen cylinder ruptured at its base during preparations to pre-charge accumulator cylinders, dispersing cylinders and debris and causing minor shrapnel injuries to three rig personnel. BSEE attributed the failure to corrosive wall loss aggravated by environmental and structural conditions. Recommendations address recertification, filling pressure, training, inspection and corrosion-preventive maintenance.
- 202521 Feb
Nitrogen Cylinder Rupture
A nitrogen cylinder charged to 2,400 psi ruptured at its base after rig crews positioned a cylinder rack for accumulator pre-charging. The rack was not connected to charge the accumulator. The rupture scattered the rack, debris and the remaining 11 cylinders around the immediate and port aft areas of the rig.
- 202524 Jan
BSEE Safety Alert 494 - Ruptured Nitrogen Cylinders
A nitrogen cylinder ruptured during preparations to pre-charge an accumulator system, causing three minor shrapnel injuries and equipment damage. BSEE attributes the failure to corrosive wall loss, aggravated by crevices, moisture and deteriorated rack coating. Recommendations address cylinder recertification, filling records, training, inspection and corrosion-preventive maintenance.
- 202414 Oct
MSF: Safety pins left in fire suppression system – high potential near miss
A vessel inspection after dry docking found safety pins still fitted to all engine-room CO2 suppression bottles, preventing remote activation in a potential fire. Third-party testing and subsequent checks had missed their removal. The flash recommends permit-to-work coverage, deck-officer verification, procedural familiarity and checks for immediate equipment readiness.
- 202414 Oct
Urgent inspection of pressurised carbon dioxide fire fighting systems
A specialist third-party inspection of a vessel’s carbon dioxide fire suppression system found Chinese-manufactured coins inserted in 21 of 24 main 45 kg cylinders. The coins blanketed high-pressure hoses, potentially impairing suppression effectiveness. The flash calls for immediate inspection of hose connections and rectification of anomalies.
- 20243 Sep
Nitrogen cylinder ruptured
A nitrogen cylinder ruptured on a drill rig floor, destroying its rack and propelling other cylinders up to 15 metres away. Severe base corrosion had escaped inspection. The flash highlights inspection access within cylinder quads and asks readers to check certification, condition, drainage and supplier inspection standards.
- 2024Sep
F-Gas Guidance September 2024
Revised guidance for offshore oil and gas operators and service companies explains fluorinated greenhouse gas obligations. It covers technician qualifications, equipment labelling, carbon dioxide equivalence calculations, use restrictions, leak checks and detection systems, recovery and disposal during decommissioning, record retention, emissions reporting, inspection and civil penalties.
- 202429 Aug
Lifeboat air cylinder explosion on an empty installation
A lifeboat air bottle explosion was discovered on an uncrewed, shut-in offshore platform, with no injuries or known incident date. Inspection revealed corrosion beneath bottles seated in saddles. The flash discusses restricted inspection access, possible galvanic effects, depressurisation, improved bottle positioning and insulation between dissimilar materials.
- 202414 Aug
MSF: Serious hand injury – high pressure air
During a vessel fire drill, a crewmember assisting with breathing apparatus suffered a finger injury from high-pressure air released through a cylinder valve’s pilot vent hole. Surgical treatment was required. The flash relays MSF recommendations on connection tightening, leak checks, breathing checks and low-pressure alarm testing.
- 20243 Jun
Diver’s umbilical trapped during a pipeline flooding operation
A saturation diver’s umbilical became trapped between pipelines when a newly laid line shifted during flooding, interrupting breathing gas. Another diver supplied pneumo gas and helped free the umbilical. The flash examines pipeline configuration, tidal current and umbilical routing, emphasising assessment of existing conditions and management of changing variables.
- 202327 Nov
Compressed air rather than oxygen supplied to divers
This safety flash describes divers receiving compressed air instead of oxygen through their built-in breathing system, with two decompression illnesses reported. It examines incorrect gas-quad identification, missing oxygen-fraction checks and an analyser coverage gap. Lessons address supplier oversight, technical competence, investigation training and gas-management verification.
- 202314 Nov
Flash Fire from Oxygen Regulator Leads to Burn Injury
A crew member suffered first- and second-degree wrist burns when an oxygen regulator burst during preparations for welding in platform decommissioning. The alert explains oxygen-system ignition hazards and recommends considering brass rather than aluminium fittings, controlled valve opening, contamination prevention, maintenance, training and protective clothing that keeps skin covered.
- 202329 Aug
MSF: Air cylinder – high pressure discharge
A breathing apparatus cylinder’s pillar valve broke off while a crew member drained residual pressure before landing it ashore. Nobody was injured. The investigator considered impact from dropping the cylinder responsible. Recommendations address secure handling, slow controlled discharge, valve orientation and PPE; the owner is investigating excess-flow valves.
- 202324 Aug
Safety warning issued about servicing and certification after a liferaft failed to inflate during an emergency
MAIB reports liferaft servicing and certification deficiencies identified after Piedras foundered and its port liferaft failed to inflate correctly. Examination of the recovered starboard raft and further inspections revealed expired supplies and neglected components. The bulletin recommends urgent reinspection and servicing of affected DSB liferafts certified by Comfer Marin SL.
- 202318 Jan
Diving instructor killed – incorrect valve threads
A diving instructor was fatally struck by a valve that detached from a cylinder during a dive. The cylinder’s G3/4 internal thread was incompatible with the valve’s M25x2 external thread. The flash advises members to follow IMCA guidance on diving cylinder and valve thread compatibility.
- 202222 Jul
Flash fire on Oxygen gas quad hose
An oxygen supply change aboard a DSV was followed by a hose burst, explosion and flash fire. The technician closed valves after hearing an unfamiliar regulator noise. Investigation identified missing inlet filtration and accumulated rust particles contributing to ignition. A deck foreman extinguished the fire using dry powder.
- 202220 Jul
Bailout manifold failure
A diving bell bailout manifold failed under pressure with no divers inside. Forensic testing supported likely lateral loading from inappropriate securing, followed by stress corrosion cracking and internal corrosion. The flash describes suspended diving, bailout inspections, replacement with more robust assemblies and familiarity with planned maintenance tasks.
- 202210 Mar
Safety warning issued after discovery of blocked fixed CO2 fire extinguishing system pilot hoses
This bulletin examines blocked pilot hoses discovered after Finnmaster’s engine-room fire in Hull. Incompletely bored couplings prevented gas passage, while servicing tests missed blockages and leaks. It describes radiographic examination, revised pneumatic flow testing and recommendations to rectify affected assemblies and improve purchasing and quality control.
- 202122 Sep
Failure of in-service saturation bailout bottle
A saturation diver’s bailout bottle lost pressure through wall defects associated with internal corrosion. Similar bottles were quarantined and operations suspended. Moisture was identified as the primary factor, while third-party testing or unsuitable storage was suspected. The flash calls for improved servicing specifications, procedural assurance, receipt inspection, drying and sealing.
- 202130 Jul
Acetylene quad fire on quayside
An acetylene cylinder quad caught fire on a quayside during vessel demobilisation involving removal of sea-fastenings by welders. No injuries were reported. The flash describes emergency response, cylinder puncturing, evacuation and cooling, and recommends pre-use inspections, appropriate quad storage and review of emergency procedures. Causes remained under investigation.
- 202130 Jul
COBRA bailout system – guidance note
This safety flash summarises JFD’s investigation of lacquer blistering and excessive aluminium-neck corrosion in COBRA’s 2L composite cylinders. It distinguishes manufacturer assurances about lacquer defects from unresolved batch concerns, and advises external-condition checks whenever sets leave the dive system, with replacement and IDEST inspection before re-use where condition is questionable.
- 202117 Mar
MSF: Air cylinder failure in lifeboat
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.
- 20206 Dec
Air cylinders – Differences in working pressure and valve types
Incorrect SCBA cylinders were supplied, with different capacities and working pressures from those ordered. Compatible filling connections could allow reduced air capacity, while valve-head types were also incorrectly specified. The flash identifies supplier assumptions, purchasing checks and incomplete specifications, and calls for better communication between requesters, purchasing staff and vendors.
- 202023 Oct
Two deaths of military divers
Two military diving fatalities highlight different training failures. In the UK, a recovered diver’s cylinders were empty, prompting action over air endurance calculations and risk assessment. In New Zealand, investigators identified departures from training standards and covert breathing-apparatus mode switching. IMCA reiterates SCUBA’s limitations for offshore diving work.
- 202015 Sep
Near miss: Sudden loss of air from diver bail-out bottle
A diver’s bail-out bottle emptied after a first-stage regulator diaphragm failed; he was recovered safely. Examination found weakened structural fibres and a hole despite recent servicing. The flash highlights subjective serviceability judgements, undefined replacement criteria and an enhanced planned maintenance requirement to replace the diaphragm alongside service-kit items.
- 202014 Aug
Near miss/positive: Internal O-ring seal found damaged on fuel system
A fuel gas cylinder connected to a forklift aboard a vessel alongside leaked at the cylinder–hose connection. Inspection revealed damaged O-ring seals in both the original and replacement cylinders. The flash highlights successful pre-fitting checks, supplier corrective action and the importance of examining exchanged equipment before use.
- 201928 Oct
Ruptured acetylene hose: Fire
A subcontractor lighting an oxy-acetylene torch on a vessel experienced a small fire at a ruptured acetylene hose. The cause remained unestablished. The flash discusses flash-back prevention through equipment maintenance, arrestors, correct connections and separate hose purging, alongside contractor compliance and conditional emergency actions.
- 201923 Oct
Use of gas-fired oven cleaning equipment inside vehicles
HSE alerts suppliers, installers and users to hazards of LPG-fired oven cleaning equipment inside vehicles following a van explosion. It sets expected standards for cylinder storage, ventilation, driver separation, ignition control, gas isolation and training, and recommends substitution where reasonably practicable to eliminate or reduce risk.
- 2019Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2019
A collection of marine accident lessons spanning merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational boating. Cases examine collisions, grounding, machinery failures, falls, fires and people overboard. Discussions emphasise passage planning, bridge teamwork, equipment maintenance, lifejackets, realistic recovery arrangements and emergency drills, with reproduced bulletins on vehicle-deck safety and retractable ballast securing.
- 201928 May
Partial pressure of oxygen (PPO₂) getting low in bell
During saturation diving at approximately 147 msw, oxygen partial pressure fell in a bell and the main oxygen bottle was subsequently found empty. The flash describes breathing-mix purging, BIBS use and recovery, followed by changes to oxygen make-up responsibilities, panel positioning, valve configuration and buffer-tank connections.
- 201913 May
Helium gas quad – Gas variances across quadrants
A helium gas quad intended for later use was rejected after analysis revealed differing oxygen concentrations between its quadrants and inconsistent markings. The flash identifies poor production checks and gas mixing, emphasising checks against documentation, on-site testing and consultation with suppliers about individual quadrant sampling.
- 201817 Sep
Life raft self-activates and falls to the quayside
A life raft self-inflated and fell 8 m from a vessel deck onto a barriered quayside area, without injury or property damage. Improper cylinder servicing was identified; potential diaphragm damage, overfilling and sustained extreme heat could have contributed to failure. Lessons emphasise manufacturer servicing requirements and third-party service assurance.
- 201811 Sep
Unintentional release of carbon dioxide from fixed fire-extinguishing systems on ro-ro vessels Eddystone and Red Eagle
Investigation of unintended carbon dioxide discharges on Eddystone and Red Eagle examines leaking cylinder valves, system activation arrangements and maintenance deficiencies. Neither incident harmed anyone. The report analyses leakage alarms, pressure protection, valve testing and servicing, and recommends design reviews and improved survey assurance of safety devices.
- 201823 Aug
Unplanned stored pressure release: worker struck by gas cylinder – company fined
A safety flash describes a gas-cylinder replacement incident on Brent Delta. A charged cylinder released gas, was dropped and suffered valve shearing; both components became projectiles, severely injuring another technician. The HSE identified failures in cylinder handling safeguards and information provision, and fined the company.
- 20183 Aug
Near miss: onboard O₂ bottle leaked into diving bell
A diving bell near miss involved oxygen supply valves left partly open during pre-dive checks, emptying a bottle into the bell. Distraction, delayed topside readings and distrust of an unreliable analyser were identified. The run was aborted; subsequent measures included atmosphere flushing, additional valve checks, analysers and sourcing buffer tanks.
- 20189 May
Incorrectly selected oxygen welding gas hose bursts & catches fire
A shipboard oxygen hose exploded and caught fire when a cylinder valve was opened for cutting work. The replacement was a hydraulic oil hose, unsuitable despite its pressure rating. Adiabatic compression and residual oil were suggested as the cause. Lessons address hose specifications, oxygen-service cleanliness and slow valve opening.
- 201822 Mar
Sustained load cracking in aluminium cylinders manufactured from aluminium alloys HE30/AA6082 and AA6351
This flash examines sustained load cracking in older aluminium breathing-gas cylinders made from HE30/AA6082 and AA6351 alloys. It summarises New Zealand approval withdrawals and UK inspection requirements, including eddy-current testing. IMCA recommends excluding these cylinders from member worksites and provides identification markings and disposal guidance.
- 20188 Mar
Cylinders manufactured from aluminium alloys HE30/AA6082 and AA6351 and used primarily for gases for underwater breathing apparatus
HSE warns of catastrophic failures in HE30/AA6082 and AA6351 aluminium cylinders used for diving gases, highlighting susceptibility to sustained-load cracking. The alert requires visual inspection and eddy-current testing by competent inspectors, explains alloy identification, and specifies withdrawal or condemnation where identification or satisfactory testing cannot be established.
- 201831 Jan
Fixed CO₂ fire extinguishing systems – US Coast Guard alert
This safety flash relays a US Coast Guard alert about deficiencies in a container ship’s fixed carbon dioxide firefighting system. Connecting hoses were wrapped around cylinder valve handles, and discharge hoses under tension showed ozone cracking. It highlights IMO maintenance and inspection guidance and the potential for failure during an emergency.
- 201720 Oct
US Coast Guard Safety Alert 07/17 – CO₂ hazards
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.
- 201711 Aug
High potential near miss: failure of valve on gas bottle
A naval gas-bottle refilling near miss involved a valve expelled from a high-pressure cylinder, with the charging whip and valve remnant striking a wall. Analysis identified corrosion-induced cracking and material fatigue. The flash describes valve replacement, age tracking, whip securing, cleanliness procedures and consideration of further training.
- 201726 Jul
Sinking of vivier creel boat Louisa with loss of 3 lives
Investigation of Louisa’s fatal foundering at anchor in Mingulay Bay examines probable hold flooding from a deck wash hose, disabled bilge warning and crew fatigue. Wreck examination and modelling accompany analysis of liferaft inflation failure, lifejacket performance, equipment servicing and delays in the distress-alert and rescue response.
- 20173 Mar
Bailout cylinder and pillar valve compatibility failure
This safety flash reports bailout cylinder pillar valves failing thread gauge checks during inspection, subsequent maintenance and new-stock acceptance. It explains GO/NO-GO ring and plug gauge methods and recommends six-monthly thread checks, calibrated gauges, trained technicians and serial-number records linking valves to cylinders.
- 201610 Aug
Proper care of oxy-acetylene cutting and welding equipment
This safety flash addresses fires involving deteriorated hoses and flashbacks in oxy-acetylene equipment. It explains reverse-flow hazards and distinguishes non-return valves from flashback arresters. Precautions cover lighting, purging, gas pressures, leak detection, hose fittings and pre-use inspection, including checks on third-party equipment and cylinder storage.
- 201627 Jan
Breathing air cylinder air valve broken off
A breathing-air cylinder valve broke off during transport by a third-party vessel, releasing pressure without further damage or injury. The flash identifies inadequate securing, untrained handlers and missing evidence of change management and risk assessment. Lessons address trained personnel, task assessment and protected, vertical valve-up transport.
- 20167 Jan
High potential near-miss: Failure of both divers’ breathing air supply and dive stage recovery winch
A diving near miss involved entanglement with a submerged winch exhaust hose weight, restricting the diver’s breathing supply and stalling the recovery winch. Emergency gas and use of the clump weight winch enabled safe recovery. Corrective actions addressed hose positioning, weight attachment, umbilical testing and deck risk assessment.
- 20167 Jan
High potential near-miss: Poor O₂ content in supplied air – diver temporarily lost consciousness
A diver briefly lost consciousness on a diving support vessel after switching to a breathing-air quad containing around 3% oxygen. Tenders removed his helmet and he recovered. The flash examines supplied-gas quality assurance, an oxygen analyser that failed to alarm, and proposed pre-dive checklist changes to clear residual gas before introducing a new supply.
- 20167 Jan
Injuries due to failure of diver's emergency gas cylinder – use of incompatible threads
Five divers were injured aboard a diving support vessel when a pillar valve detached from an emergency gas cylinder during dive preparation. Preliminary assessment identified incompatible cylinder and valve threads. The flash suggests compatibility checks, permanent identification, separate registration, work instructions and inspection audit records while investigation continues.
- 2015Jul
Know when to leave! — Process Safety Beacon, July 2015
Three chemical-process incidents contrast fatal attempts to manage abnormal reactions or releases with prompt evacuation during a cylinder fire. The bulletin stresses recognising when to leave danger, understanding site emergency arrangements and practising drills, including knowing when evacuation or sheltering in a safe place is appropriate.
- 2015Apr
Safe work in confined spaces
This Approved Code of Practice explains confined-space regulatory duties, identification of specified risks and avoidance of entry. It addresses competent risk assessment, written safe systems, atmospheric testing, ventilation and isolation, alongside respiratory equipment, access design, rescue arrangements, equipment maintenance and role-specific training.
- 201418 Dec
Injuries due to failure of diver’s emergency gas cylinder
Five divers preparing for a dive aboard a diving support vessel were injured when a valve parted from an emergency air cylinder filled to 180 bar. Preliminary assessment identified incompatible cylinder and valve threads. The flash recommends compatibility checks, traceable identification, working procedures and inspection audit assurance.
- 20144 Apr
Near-miss: Failure to reconnect fire suppression systems
A vessel inspection revealed that six of ten FM200 fire-suppression cylinders remained disconnected following dry docking. The isolation certificate was missing despite a register entry recording reinstatement. All cylinders were restored, and the member introduced a return-to-service procedure, reviewed maintenance routines and developed a safety inspection checklist.
- 201420 Feb
Hose fire caused by flashback in oxygen and acetylene hoses
An oxygen–acetylene cutting hose burst and burned during torch ignition, without injuries. Inspection found brittle, perished hoses; an inoperative non-return valve was suspected, and connections had not been leak checked. The flash explains flashback hazards and recommends suitable leak detection, equipment inspection, correct lighting procedures and flashback arresters.
- 201320 Dec
High potential near-miss: Incompatible pillar valve assembly
This flash describes a pillar-valve failure while charging a diver’s twin bailout set. The investigation identified mixed imperial and metric cylinders, absent management of change and forced valve insertion without investigating resistance. Corrective actions included metric-only components, thread measurement, parts marking and training in management of change.
- 2013Dec
Fall on foredeck of dive workboat Jean Elaine with loss of 1 life
Investigates a recreational technical diver’s fatal accident after a foredeck fall aboard Jean Elaine near Cape Wrath. Examines how fins and heavy diving equipment affected balance and injury severity, and the possible influence of abdominal trauma on his subsequent dive. Reviews risk assessment, physical support, supervision and skipper training.
- 201321 May
Substandard nitrogen quads delivered to shipyard
Two nitrogen quads delivered to a vessel in a shipyard showed corrosion around bottle necks and valve areas despite supplier approval and certification. They were quarantined pending collection. The flash emphasises arrival and pre-use checks, cautions against relying on certification, and recommends supplier audits as required.
- 2013
Dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres
This consolidated Approved Code of Practice explains DSEAR duties for work involving dangerous substances. It addresses risk assessment, storage and containment, ventilation, ignition prevention and hazardous-area classification. Detailed guidance covers equipment suitability, hot work, tank cleaning and disposal, explosion-safety verification, emergency arrangements and employee training.
- 201211 Oct
Hand injury during O₂ handling and equipment maintenance
An explosion during an oxygen quad change on a diving support vessel caused second-degree burns to both hands despite gloves. The precise cause remained undetermined. Findings addressed regulator age, unsuitable thread tape, uncontrolled venting and maintenance deficiencies; actions covered servicing, replacement, compatible fittings, dedicated tools and pre-use checks.
- 2012Aug
Accidental discharge of carbon dioxide during fixed CO2 fire extinguishing system test on tug SD Nimble with 1 person injured
Investigation of an unintended carbon dioxide discharge during servicing of SD Nimble’s fixed firefighting system, injuring an engineer. Pilot lines remained connected to the cylinders during testing. The report examines isolation, training, supervision, system drawings and rescue, identifying an incorrect action plan as the likely explanation for the isolation mistake.
- 201225 Jun
Failure to follow gas quad procedure
A saturation diving incident involved air supplied instead of oxygen after ordering errors and incomplete delivery, connection and gas-analysis checks. Automatic metabolic make-up introduced the incorrect gas into the chamber; no ill effects were found. Actions addressed procedural compliance, authorised delivery verification and portable analyser use before connection.
- 201225 Jun
Near-miss: Saturation diver lost gas supply
A saturation diver conducting pipeline free-span measurements at 100 m lost gas supplies when his umbilical became trapped at the bell interface. He returned unassisted on emergency gas and was unharmed. The flash examines bell movement, restricted access, emergency response, revised procedures and case-by-case assessment of bell positioning for rescue.
- 201230 Apr
Near-miss during subsea cutting operations
A flashback during subsea gas flame cutting with a PVL torch ruptured an oxygen hose underwater and on deck, causing a small fire without injuries. Investigation identified missing flashback arrestors, incorrect bottle-change procedures and an improperly closed torch valve. Changes included arrestors, non-return valves, gas quads and revised instructions.
- 201120 Sep
DuPont Belle Toxic Chemical Releases
Final investigation of methyl chloride, oleum and phosgene releases at DuPont’s Belle plant in January 2010, including a fatal phosgene exposure. It examines rupture-disc alarms, sample-line corrosion, PTFE transfer-hose failure and maintenance scheduling, supported by metallurgical testing and dispersion modelling. Recommendations address change management, hazard assessment and phosgene safeguards.
- 201116 Sep
Oxygen regulator explodes causing injury
An oxygen regulator exploded during a diving-gas quad changeover aboard a vessel, burning a gasman’s hand. The flash discusses possible valve contamination, unsuitable protective equipment and difficulty isolating oxygen after opening all cylinders. Actions include cleanliness checks, risk assessment and a revised connection sequence with slow pressure equalisation.
- 201028 Jul
Diver injury during air cylinder recharging
A diver suffered a head injury during compressed-air recharging of a bale-out cylinder on deck. Incompatible metric and Whitworth threads allowed the pillar valve to disconnect, with the compressor filling hose striking the diver’s head. The member checked thread compatibility, required subcontractor marking and checking procedures, audited the subcontractor and stipulated dedicated JSA/HAZID assessments.
- 201014 Jul
CO₂ systems safety pins
This IMCA safety flash highlights a UK Marine Safety Forum notice about safety pins associated with carbon dioxide cylinders during transport and disabling. The supplied page identifies the subject but provides no incident account, equipment failure details or specific recommendations.
- 20107 May
Stress corrosion cracking of beverage mixed gas cylinders
HSE alerts beverage gas fillers and inspection bodies following a cylinder explosion and earlier failures associated with internal stress corrosion cracking. It describes contamination checks, including weighing, moisture detection and vacuum evacuation, and sets out examination and rejection measures for corrosion, cracking and excessively deep or sharp stamp markings.
- 2009Dec
MAIB Safety Digest 3/2009
This marine accident digest presents cases involving merchant vessels, fishing boats and small craft, with lessons on navigation, flooding, fire, stability and recovery from water. It examines unused watchkeeping aids, hot-work precautions, crane corrosion, hazardous winch arrangements and lifejacket suitability, alongside risk assessment and emergency preparation.
- 20097 Sep
Use of pre-mixed nitrox gases
A diving near miss involved third-party premixed nitrox with incorrect oxygen content. Monitoring detected 32% against an expected 36%, prompting suspension; subsequent testing found approximately 15% in some cylinders. Lessons emphasise supplier quality assurance, analysis before first use, in-line analysers and attention to individual bottles within racks.
- 200917 Aug
Pillar valve failure
A diver was injured when an emergency cylinder’s pillar valve separated under pressure and struck his helmet. Investigation identified incompatible imperial and metric threads, with valve mix-up after third-party hydrostatic testing considered the most likely cause. Actions addressed testing-agency processes, cylinder withdrawal, thread compatibility and hired-equipment acceptance.
- 200823 Jul
Incorrectly colour coded oxygen cylinders
An IMCA safety flash reports receipt of a small number of W-size oxygen cylinders incorrectly labelled as oxygen-free nitrogen. It reiterates diving gas sampling requirements before and during operations, supplier labelling and purity certification, competent analysis of received gases, and supervisory authority for confirming contents before use.
- 2008Jun
Halon cylinder becomes rocket! — Process Safety Beacon, June 2008
A Halon cylinder dropped during inspection lost its valve after impact with concrete. Rapid discharge propelled it nearly 0.4 km, without injuries or significant equipment damage. The alert explains the greater thrust potential of high-flow cylinders and emphasises securing cylinders, using available valve caps and ensuring safe contractor handling.
- 20074 Apr
Near-miss: Hyperbaric fire extinguisher incident
A hyperbaric extinguisher’s safety valve assembly blew off during six-monthly functional checks at a shore-base workshop, without injury. A faulty first-stage regulator and non-functioning burst disc were identified. Actions included phasing out twin-cylinder extinguishers, annual burst-disc replacement and improved equipment traceability.
- 20061 Oct
Near Miss Incident Breathing Apparatus Valve Failure
A near miss occurred while a breathing-air cylinder was lifted by its valve for sampling. Escaping air wrenched the bottle from an employee’s hand, prompting him to leave the emergency-response container. Inspection found a sheared threaded brass valve section. Cylinder pressure was between 200 and 240 bar.
- 200631 Jan
Breathing gas contamination
Routine testing after a vessel gas transfer identified carbon dioxide contamination in three cylinders of diver breathing gas. Chromatographic analysis and onboard inspection followed. The flash describes differing supplier and company purity limits, removal of the supplier from the approved list, and a new requirement for independent laboratory certification.
- 200531 Oct
Explosion in ballast tank causing loss of life
An explosion during oxy-acetylene repairs inside an oil rig’s ballast tank seriously burned two workers, one of whom later died. Gas had accumulated during a break through a torch valve that was not tight, with inadequate ventilation. Lessons address hot-work certificate follow-up, continuous ventilation, gas-equipment maintenance and precautions when leaving work temporarily.
- 2005Aug
Honeywell Chemical Incidents — Final Investigation Report
Investigates three chemical incidents at Honeywell’s Baton Rouge plant involving chlorine, contaminated antimony pentachloride and hydrogen fluoride. Examines cooler inspection, control-room protection, shutdown isolation, cylinder identification and nonroutine draining. Findings address incomplete hazard analyses and departures from procedures, with recommendations on change management, testing, training and protective equipment.
- 20051 Mar
Floating ignition source drifts near to production platform
This safety flash describes rafts carrying lit cooking gas tank sets, deployed by fishing boats to attract fish, drifting towards gas production platforms. It highlights ignition hazards and fishing boats breaching a 500 metre safety zone. Suggested responses include monitoring, increased security watches, communication with fishery groups and discussions with authorities.
- 20042 Aug
Disguised transportable gas cylinders
This safety flash relays reports of deliberately disguised gas cylinders from various locations worldwide. Some acetylene cylinders were labelled as oxygen cylinders and had their valves replaced. It points to an EIGA alert on recognising modified cylinders and recommends bringing its identification methods to the attention of people handling them.
- 20041 Mar
Near-miss involving bail-out bottle pillar valve
A replacement bail-out bottle pillar valve with incorrect size and threads flew out during air filling at about 100 bar. Nobody was injured and nothing was damaged. The flash emphasises maintenance supervision, clear instructions, regular spare-stock checks, equipment-specific labelling and reminders at divers’ safety meetings.
- 20031 Dec
Incorrect pressure-rated manifold fitted to diver’s bail-out
A diver’s twin-cylinder 300 bar bail-out was fitted with an unmarked manifold rated for 232 bar. The flash describes checks of assemblies by dive technicians and vessel-held manifold stocks to confirm suitable ratings and markings, with unmarked manifolds to be quarantined and returned to the company’s equipment department.
- 20032 Sep
Regulator fire
This reissued safety flash describes two oxygen regulator fires in which pressure was applied with the regulators fully dialled in. Workforce recommendations cover cylinder securing, contamination and damage checks, regulator compatibility, valve opening, pressure adjustment, leak checks and temporary shutdown, including draining the system and releasing adjusting-spring pressure.
- 20031 Jul
Inflatable lifejackets fail to inflate
This flash reports deaths of a fisherman and a workboat crewman whose inflatable lifejackets failed to inflate. Loose gas cylinders were suspected, not confirmed. It recommends servicing to manufacturers’ instructions, maintenance records, user instruction and pre-use inspection of lifejacket components and inflation arrangements.
- 2003Jun
Fire in engine room of ro-ro passenger ferry Norsea
Investigation of Norsea’s September 2002 engine-room fire examines fuel-pipe fretting, loss of propulsion, smoke exposure and emergency procedures. It analyses carbon dioxide system malfunction, fuel isolation and lone-watchkeeper duties, with recommendations on pipe security and cylinder-status information. A separate August fire is discussed without linking its cause to the later incident.
- 2003Jun
Hazards of Nitrogen Asphyxiation — Safety Bulletin - Hazards of Nitrogen Asphyxiation
This bulletin examines nitrogen asphyxiation through workplace incident data and selected cases involving confined spaces, breathing-air mix-ups and attempted rescue. It explains oxygen displacement and discusses continuous atmospheric monitoring, fresh-air ventilation, retrieval arrangements, breathing-air supply integrity, incompatible cylinder fittings and training for employees and contractors.
- 20037 May
Movement of Material Results in Dropped Gas Bottle
During preparations for a rig move, a crane swung an oxygen and acetylene bottle rack without sufficient clearance over a pipe rack post. Impact opened the oxygen-side door bar, releasing several bottles onto the main deck. Two bottles lost their valves; the bottles were empty and nobody was injured.
- 20037 Jan
Nitrogen Bottles Improperly Filled
Gas testing identified oxygen in a bottle labelled as nitrogen despite its correct fittings. Similar findings were reported in several international areas using identical oxygen and nitrogen bottles. The alert warns that charging equipment with such misfilled bottles could cause loss of life or equipment damage.
- 20021 Oct
Near-miss: Broken high pressure oxygen fitting
During recovery of an inflated lift bag aboard a vessel, an oxygen regulator broke off at the high-pressure bottle nipple. The king valve was closed and no harm occurred. Recommendations cover suitable fittings, protective framing and positioning regulators away from work areas wherever possible, with job safety analyses addressing bottles that must remain there.
- 20021 Jul
Corrosion pitting on bailout cylinder
Routine inspection revealed corrosion pitting concealed beneath a bailout cylinder’s harness strap. The flash explains that prolonged seawater trapping and regular strap rubbing could cause pitting, while severe corrosion can weaken the cylinder. It stresses regular inspection and records withdrawal of the cylinder for a full maintenance overhaul.
- 2002May
Safety warning to all mariners who wear inflatable lifejackets
This bulletin examines inflatable lifejacket failures during the abandonment of Radiant, when one crewman was lost. Testing identified disconnected or insufficiently tightened gas cylinders, including in unused jackets fitted with Hammar release units. It recommends cylinder and indicator checks, timely correction of deficiencies and regular servicing, and explains oral inflation.
- 20019 Aug
Near Miss – Oxygen Bottle Drops from Crane
This near-miss alert describes an oxygen cylinder becoming detached from an oxygen/acetylene assembly during a crane lift and falling seven feet. Its valve was damaged. The equipment was subsequently secured and the oxygen cylinder withdrawn from service; nobody was injured.
- 20011 Aug
Incident involving oxy-acetylene cutting
An internal explosion during assembly of oxy-acetylene cutting equipment injured a dive tender, though not seriously. Oil or grease contamination probably caused the explosion. The review identified an improvised manifold, missing flashback arrestors, removed regulators and inadequate cylinder segregation. Proposed actions address cleanliness, approved fittings, arrestors, regulators and segregation.
- 20002 Dec
Incompatible threads on the bell onboard gas bottles
A diving support vessel reported incompatible pillar valve and cylinder threads discovered during recertification and testing of bell onboard gas bottles. The bottles had W28.8 x 1¼” threads to DIN 477, while valves were ¾” NPT. Contractors may wish to check their worksites for similar mismatches.
- 20001 Oct
Serious fire extinguisher alert
A worker died from flying debris when a fire extinguisher exploded while tackling a small fire. The report attributes the incident to cylinder corrosion beneath a rubber protective foot following water ingress. A vendor warning states that annual inspection should include examining the cylinder bottom with the foot removed.
- 20001 Jul
Transport of welding/burning gas
Oxygen and acetylene cylinders toppled during vessel transport in an inadequately secured, unlabelled container. An acetylene cylinder lost its cap protection, allowing its valve to open and gas to escape. Nobody was injured. The flash records recommendations for racks or cages, dangerous-goods labelling and paperwork, and checks preventing mixed-gas transport.
- 1999Jul
Safety warning after liquid petroleum gas causes explosion on vessel with 4 people injured
This safety bulletin follows an explosion aboard a sail training vessel berthed in Poole Harbour, injuring four people. LPG leakage appeared to be a crucial factor, pending confirmation. Recommendations address bottle connections, locker ventilation, gas-tight pipe penetrations, detector positioning and maintenance, appliance instructions and avoiding naked lights when locating leaks.