Warning on loading tankers after two men die in explosion
Issue Date: - Thursday, 11 December 2008
WorkSafe has issued a warning on safe loading and unloading of tankers following the deaths of two men in an explosion at Broome last week.
At this stage it appears that the two men had been unloading under pressure a tanker containing barite (barium sulphate - a powdered substance used in the offshore drilling industry) at a yard near the Broome docks on December 1.
The tanker, which was mounted on the rear of a truck, exploded and fatally injured the two workers.
WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said today that, although the WorkSafe investigation had not been completed, some issues needed to be raised.
“WorkSafe inspectors are still working on the investigation into this tragic incident, but we feel it is important to issue a reminder on having safe systems of work in place when loading and unloading this type of tanker,” Ms Lyhne said.
“It is crucial that the procedures recommended by the designer and/or manufacturer of the tanker be followed to the letter.
“It is also vitally important that the air being used to pressurise a tanker is properly and adequately regulated, and that it is of a suitable quality for the safe operation of the tanker.
“Last but by no means least, safety devices such as pressure safety valves must be set at or below the design pressure of the tanker, and must be capable of relieving the pressure in the tanker without leaving an accumulation of compressed air.
“Some pressure vessels must be registered with WorkSafe, so employers should check to ensure they are meeting their legal obligations in regard to the registration of their pressure vessels.
“Whatever the outcome of the investigation into the two deaths in Broome last week, I would like to remind all workplaces with pressure vessels to ensure that stringent safety measures are in place at all times when performing tasks involving high air pressure and potentially volatile substances.”
Further information on safe systems of work can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 9327 8777 or on the website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.
Media contact: Caroline De Vaney 9327 8744 or 0408 927563 (media enquiries only).