Inspection Detail

Inspection: 112132386 - S E Pipeline Construction Company

Inspection Information - Office: Long Beach District Office

Investigation Summary

On June 3, 1992, Employees #1 and #2, of SE Pipe Line Construction Co., were removing a tee from an 8 inch underground oil transfer line. The tee would be replaced with a straight section of pipe. The owner/operator of the tank farm had identified the line and isolated it at remotely located valves. No verification of the identity or isolation was performed by the employees' company. The line was sucked out by a riser that sat on the tee. The tee was cut out and plumber's plugs were inserted into the pipe end during pipe beveling procedures. When the employees attempted to remove one of the plugs, it acted as if it had pressure behind it. A cap on a 3/4 inch bleeder in the plug was loosened to vent pressure. Diesel oil flowing down the line struck the plug and knocked it aside. The 3/4 inch bleeder went through the hand of Employee #2, resulting in a compound fracture and impalement. Employee #1's arm was blown against the bevel on the pipe at the opposite side of the excavation; sutures were required.

Keywords: FRACTURE, IMPALED, STRUCK AGAINST, CONSTRUCTION, OIL LINE, PIPELINE, HAND, PRESSURE RELEASE