A fire recently occurred on an offshore production platform during welding
operations. Hot slag from welding on a hand rail dropped to a lower deck onto a drop cloth
covering an empty 55-gallon drum that had contained paint thinner. An explosion and fire
ensued.
The fire was extinguished quickly with dry chemicals and water. There was
no injury to personnel nor damage to the platform.
The area had been inspected prior to the welding but the drop cloth
concealed the open paint thinner drum.
To prevent recurrence of this type of accident, the Operator will remove
all such materials to a safe storage area and clear the welding site prior to welding or
burning.
H. T. Cypher
Acting Deputy Conservation Manager
Pacific
OCS Region, Field Operations
Web Master:
Nollie
Gildow-Owens
Page content last updated 09/20/2006
Page last published 09/20/2006
