Inspection Detail

Inspection: 111989190 - Welch & Howell Drilling Inc

Inspection Information - Office: San Diego District Office

Investigation Summary

At approximately 10:55 p.m. on October 3, 1993, Employee #1 and three other employees were engaged in drilling for hot water at night in the Saltan Sea. The relief crew had just arrived. Employee #1 was helping lower the upper section of a large 10-foot blow-out-prevention (bop) valve. When he looked back for his relief, he lost his balance, reached out to break his fall, and grabbed the bop. Three of Employee #1's right fingers were inside a 1-inch opening when the bop's flange partially set on his fingers. Employee #1 was taken to the hospital for skin and muscle operations. He had no broken bones. According to the employer, who was present at the accident, Employee #1 was properly trained with 5 years experience. Employee #1 was not paying attention and was given a reprimand. No malfunction was found in either equipment or procedures.

Keywords: SAFETY RELIEF VALVE, DRILL OPERATOR, FINGER, CONSTRUCTION, CAUGHT BETWEEN, VALVE, LOST BALANCE, INATTENTION