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Minerals Management Service Gulf of Mexico OCS Region |
Notice No. 129
June 15, 1984
OCS Operations Safety Alert
Welding Explosion and Injury
An all too common human error occurred on the Gulf of Mexico OCS recently causing an injury and some damage.
The accident was caused by a welder attempting to cut the top out of a drum without flushing and filling the drum properly. The drum had warning labels on its side indicating flammable liquid. The drum exploded and threw the welder against the wall of the welding shack.
To prevent a recurrence of this type of accident, the operation will again stress the company's welding procedures and instructions. Drums should be flushed with water and left full of water when cutting is necessary.
[signed] D.W. Solanas
Regional Supervisor
Rules and Production
Gulf of Mexico OCS Region