Diving Safety Incident Analysis

Study Notes

During saturation diving at 65m, a diver was exposed to a sudden, unplanned release of hydrocarbon gas (estimated pressure >150 bar).
The pressure release caused a stuck blind stab to be ejected and the diver to be pushed backwards by the force of the gas.
The diver was unharmed.
The incident was considered a high-potential near miss.
Saturation divers were working on a subsea skid, where incorrect tagging was identified.
A dummy stab removal was to be carried out using hand tools (T-bar and hammer).
During hammering, gas bubbles released from a receptacle, followed by a large release.
Divers were instructed to stop working for 10 minutes to allow gas to discharge.
Diver 1 returned to the bell; Diver 2 continued hammering the blind stab.
The dummy stab ejected, releasing trapped, high-pressure production gas.
Diver 2 was pushed backwards by the gas but remained on top of the skid.

Unlike previous work, isolation of the skid was not demonstrated due to pipework configuration and lack of venting.
The incident was similar to a previous incident in the North Sea (a reference is provided).
Critical controls for high potential incidents need to be in place.
Stop Work Authority needs reinforcement across all worksites and operations.
Personnel should be encouraged to ask questions and assess potential risks.
Procedures and task plans should clearly include critical "hold points" outlining ROV tool use.

During pipelaying, a wooden packing block (approx. 1kg) attached to the pipe, crossed the main deck, and entered the pipelay tower.
It fell more than 10 meters through the system, landing on the workstation floor.
No injuries were reported.

The dropped block passed through an inadequate gap in workstation barrier system - DROPS barriers.
An insufficient or inadequate barrier to stop the wooden block from entering the pipeline was a contributing factor.
The dropped object passed through the gap around the pipe due to pipe deflection and did not retract with the pipe.
Small pipe packing blocks should be avoided.

A worker fell through a damaged open hatch, sustaining leg and knee injuries.
Factors contributing to incident: lack of situational awareness, inadequate fall protection measures, failure to properly secure the hatch cover and failure to alert others.
BSEE identified working conditions in offshore environment can present challenging hazards.
This incident highlights the importance of consistently checking surroundings for potential hazards. This is relevant for various work situations, including loose grating, damaged handrails, hot work areas, and lifting heavy objects.

A fire broke out in a stateroom on a small towing vessel.
The fire was extinguished safely, with no injuries.
The vessel was destroyed.
An off-duty pilot was awakened by a smoke alarm and the smell of smoke.
A latent issue such as a defect in the muffler during construction or the exhaust system design's allowance for thermal expansion were possible contributors.
Hot exhaust gases escaped into the stack area.
Cracks in welds on the upper section of the starboard muffler allowed the escape of exhaust gases.
Combustible materials in the joinery, outfitting, and furnishings contributed to the extent of the fire damage.

Machinery exhaust systems often run through tight spaces, making access and inspection difficult.
Inspection of welding and other potential weak points in exhaust systems is crucial.
Stop Work Authority procedure needs reinforcement.
The importance of crew communication and visibility during tasks (e.g., snagged container).
Ensure barriers are suitably designed to prevent gaps for potential dropped objects.
Always check surroundings before starting work activities.
Identify hazards and consider possible actions.