UPDATED on 5/19/11 @ 9:02 p.m. EST
This incident occurred 4 May 2011 on a pipeline project during a hydro-test of new piping.
Here is just one of the many hazards we must address during Construction. We must respect the amount of stored energy during the integrity pressure testing – hydro testing and especially pneumatic testing we perform. Proper safe distance must be maintained depending on the amount of stored energy. Also, let us not become complacent when we see the same hazards every day 51; think about 60; what if 61; situations in our work, whether in the field or the office.
This incident occurred on a pipeline project on May 4, 2011, during a hydro-test of new piping.
The fabrication, consisting of 24″ Sch. 30 (.562 wall) pipe & fittings, was hydro-tested when the failure occurred. There were approximately 80 linear feet of piping included in the test. The piping was to be pressurized to 2160 psi. When the test pressure reached 1740 psi, there was a loud noise, similar to a gunshot.
Four of the workers were impacted by the water pressure release. Two were thrown under a truck; One received a bad contusion on his head when he hit the undercarriage of the truck, and the other worker received a severe laceration to his cheek. A third worker lost several teeth when he was hit in the mouth by test equipment which was propelled by the rush of water. Luckily, the fourth worker was not injured.
Considering the number of hydro tests we administer during Construction, this is a very sobering situation. It is very easy to get lulled into a false sense of security after looking at hundreds of hydro & pneumatic tests. It is easy to begin thinking, 60; I’ve looked at a thousand tests – nothing will happen…” It is easy to become complacent with the hazards you have in your job every day.
