Ignition from use of Oxygen instead of N2

Cause & Consequence

• Fire or explosion

Incident Location

Any Location Type

Incident Activity

Production operations

Incident Info Source

Heidi Mykland, Shell Exploration and Production

Specific Incident Equipment

No details available.

Lessons Identified

Connection are NOT standard throughout Europe and incorrect connection could occur with other gases. Always confirm bottle content prior to use. Oxygen should only be used with Oxygen-compatible systems. UK Standard of shoulder colour coding will take several years to implement. For information/advice on the European Standard for colour coding of cylinders, refer to the Gas Cylinder Identification Chart on the supplier’s website. www.airproducts.co.uk/cylindergases/coding.htm

Incident Recommendations

Ensure clear labels on all cylinders.· Ensure everyone is aware of colour coding.