Explosion during removal of old resin plugs
A near miss incident recently occurred when there was an explosion of the resin/wire plug in a Wirelock ROV umbilical lifting/docking cone. Heat, applied using an oxy acetylene torch to remove the old resin/wire plug ready for re-termination, caused a build up of fumes which led to an explosion. The explosion shot the armoured strands from the cone several feet in the air.
The contractor involved has elected to ensure that where possible old resin plugs are removed from sockets by cold press techniques. Where heat has to be used, the contractor advises that heat should be applied from a low heat torch, the socket positioned to allow the fumes to escape from both ends and the work carried out in a well-ventilated location.
Safety Event
Published: 1 May 1997
Download: 
IMCA SF 03/97
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