Remember that project where we installed new XXXXXXX and to save money we did not remove the old XXXXX and just piped around it? We always thought that the old piping and valves were not a hazard, well think again…
On May 20, 2019, an offshore oil and gas worker was conducting daily rounds, which included checking for fluid in the gas lift fluid slug catcher. The worker noticed that the drain line to the associated containment pan was leaking. The worker attempted to close a ½-inch ball valve that drains to the catcher containment pan, but instead of closing it, the worker inadvertently opened the valve, releasing approximately 1200 pounds per square inch (psi) of pressure. This pressure release caused the drain tubing to dislodge from the containment pan and strike the worker, fracturing the worker’s nose.
