Topic
Oxygen Enrichment
Elevated atmospheric oxygen increasing combustion risk.
Documents
- 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.
- 201711 Aug
Oxygen and acetylene hose caught fire
An oxygen/acetylene hose fire was stopped by interrupting the gas supply, with no injuries and slight material damage. The flash identifies oil contamination, sharp edges and potentially inadequate ventilation as possible contributors. It explains oxygen-enrichment hazards and outlines isolation, ignition-source removal, ventilation and leak repair when enrichment is suspected.
- 200821 May
Abrasion of metal casing
A safety flash describes abrasion of an oxygen-hose flame arrester discovered during clip replacement. A stored hose swinging with vessel movement wore the casing enough to expose its O-ring, allowing potential oxygen leakage and atmospheric enrichment. It questions Jubilee clip suitability and recommends checking hoses and arresters for damage.
- 200621 Jun
Near-miss: Potential use of petroleum-based grease in an oxygen-rich environment
A near-miss involved petroleum-based grease applied to a scrubber motor bearing during repair of diving decompression equipment. The grease was identified before refitting, and the motor was replaced. The flash explains the potential for self-ignition in oxygen-rich conditions and recommends item-specific maintenance instructions, qualified servicing and post-repair checks.
- 20041 Jan
Oxygen near-miss
A worker blew oxygen into a colleague’s welding hood to clear a fogged lens during pipe welding in a tented area. Work was stopped immediately. The flash highlights potential fire hazards from oxygen enrichment and records contractor safety stand-downs, site-specific induction training and renewed emphasis on hazard familiarisation.
- Undated
Underwater Explosion During Anode Relocation for Pipeline-Riser Installation
An investigation describes an underwater explosion while a diver relocated an anode for pipeline-riser installation at South Timbalier 300. Striking an arc preceded the explosion; the report attributes it to an apparent oxygen build-up in the anode cavity. The unconscious diver was recovered, treated and evacuated. No recurrence-prevention recommendations were reported.
- Undated
Confined Space Entry Program Reference Manual
Reference manual for developing confined space entry programmes under British Columbia’s regulatory framework. It covers space identification, hazard assessment, training, written procedures, atmospheric monitoring, ventilation, respiratory protection, lockout and piping isolation. Standby duties, rescue planning and entry permits accompany sample procedures, a worked permit and ventilation troubleshooting guidance.
- Undated
Hazards of Confined Spaces
This booklet explains atmospheric and physical dangers associated with confined-space entry, illustrated by workplace accident alerts. It discusses oxygen imbalance, toxic substances, explosive atmospheres and machinery hazards, alongside calibrated air monitoring, ventilation, piping isolation and lockout. It outlines the components of a written entry programme, including hazard assessment and rescue arrangements.