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Damage to Drain Nozzles on Tote Tanks Poses Leak Hazard
BSEE has become aware of multiple instances in the Gulf of Mexico region where tote tank drain nozzles have been damaged, leading to leaks and spills during lifting events.
These incidents have raised significant safety concerns, and it is crucial that possible risks are promptly addressed to prevent further occurrences.
Recent incidents include:
1. Crane operator incident: A crane operator lifted a tote tank filled with diesel fuel that was surrounded by other items on the deck. The drain on the tote tank came into contact with another item on the deck during the lift, resulting in the drain breaking off. This incident led to a significant diesel fuel spill, affecting both the deck and the surrounding water. (See Figure 1)
2. Chemical injection skid incident: During lifting operations involving a fully loaded 550-gallon total tank, the tote tank’s drain nozzle came into contact with a crossmember on the rack of a chemical injection skid. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the nozzle extended beyond the tank wall by at least one inch.
This contact caused a crack in the weld of the drain nozzle, resulting in a minor leak. (See Figure 2)
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