Fire: flammable substance close to oxy-propane cutting activity
ACTIVITY:
MAINTENANCE & HOUSEKEEPING
TITLE
Fire: flammable substance close to oxy-propane cutting activity
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
WHAT HAPPENED
A conveyor was to be removed from the location where it was situated and was to be subsequently relocated in a new position. As part of the dismantling process, a canopy needed to be removed. The maintenance engineer utilised oxy-Propane cutting equipment to cut the canopy away from the conveyor structure.
An oil drum storage bund was situated within a few metres and spilled oil had accumulated in the catch-tray. The maintenance engineer believed the oil to be water based and non-flammable. This assumption was incorrect.
As cutting commenced, sparks landed in the spill tray igniting the oil. The fire caused localised damage, however; the proximity of the bund to the access stairs used by the engineer to the workplace meant the fire trapped him temporarily. A colleague positioned a ladder permitting his escape.
ACCIDENT / INCIDENT IMAGES
Click image to enlarge
canopy
Click image to enlarge
oil storage bund
LEARNING POINTS / ACTIONS TAKEN
- Before any hot work assess the area for potentially flammable substances.
- Conduct a suitable and sufficient risk assessment.
- Complete a permit to work appropriate to the task.
- Ensure you have an effective escape route available to you.
LEARNING POINTS / ACTIONS IMAGES
ACTIVITY:
MAINTENANCE & HOUSEKEEPING
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