201069 Burn injury from faulty oxy-acetylene equipment

Burn injury from faulty oxy-acetylene equipment
MARS Report 201069

A crew member was preparing to carry out a gas welding operation. However, soon after the torch was ignited, the acetylene hose came off the gas torch and a flame erupted from the open hose end, burning his left hand and forearm.

Results of investigation
1. The pressure setting for the oxygen and acetylene was correct for the operation;
2. The hose and equipment were visually inspected prior to the operation of the equipment;
3. It appears that due to unnoticed damage to the acetylene hose at the crimped terminal on the torch, it parted at the connector;
4. The injured person did not wear designated welding gloves for the operation;
5. The injured person's boiler suit sleeves were rolled down for the operation.

Corrective/preventative actions
1. All vessels are to discuss the above incident at their next safety meeting;
2. Whenever hot work is being carried out, all correct PPE for the operation is to be worn in accordance with the risk assessment and the company PPE matrix;
3. Before a gas welding operation is carried out, all equipment and connections are to be checked and verified they are in safe condition;
4. A tool box meeting is to be held prior to the job, to ensure that all personnel involved in the job are well aware of the hazards involved and procedures to be complied with.