Nitrogen leak within habitat was a high potential for exposure had it not been identified...

1. Nitrogen leak within habitat enclosure – 25th February 2014
Traction No. 1881255
The habitat had been
erected in a position
that contained live
pipework and plant
equipment that had the
potential to leak.
A coupling was found to
be loose allowing
nitrogen to leak into the
habitat.
The habitat was opened
to allow natural
ventilation and the
coupling was tightened
to stop the leak.
There was a high
potential for exposure to
a Nitrogen enriched
atmosphere if this had
not been identified.
What Why Message
A habitat was erected to
allow hot work as part of
the ongoing KG event.
During the pre-job
control of work visit, an
Ineos technician was
checking the suitability
of the habitat.
The technician heard a
hissing noise within the
habitat, on investigation
a small nitrogen leak
was identified at a
coupling on pipework
within the habitat.
Prior to any habitat
being erected within an
area with live
equipment,
consideration must be
given to any potential
exposure to hazardous
materials.
The control of work
process should ensure
that all potential leak
points are checked
prior to any work being
allowed progress.
Access to habitats
should be restricted
until all controls are in
place.
If possible leave the
habitat open i.e roof
opened to allow natural
ventilation.
Do not use habitats as
a means of shelter.
HS&E FLASH GRANGEMOUTH
Contact: Linda Davis ext: 3231 or Bradley Gardner ext: 5422
UK
Habitat pipework
illustration
Pipework being worked
on
Leaking coupling
Compliance with
Behavioural Safety # 6
We should look out for
each others safety and
unsafe situations.