Alert 13 – 24 Unrecognized Hazard Results in Laceration to Leg
WHAT HAPPENED:
A derrickman was instructed to empty the brine column tank on the rig. Prior to commencing the job, the derrickman planned the job, ensured a permit-to-work was in place, and completed a job safety analysis. The equipment he was going to use included a 1 inch (2.5cm) water hose and a “jockey” pump. When the brine tank was empty, the derrickman decided to flush the hose and the pump using the 1 inch (2.5cm) water hose. He connected the hose to the outlet on the pump and pressurized it. To avoid spilling the brine, he choked the hose (Picture #1). The distance from pump outlet to the pump house was approximately 10 meters (33ft). While moving against the pump, the pressure built up inside the hose resulting in the hose slipping out of his hand. The hose made an uncontrolled swing and hit the derrickman in his leg. He continued to work until the end of his shift and it was not until after his shift that he realized the hose nozzle had cut his leg.