In an oil depot during a permeability test conducted subsequent to installing a joint on a sleeve, a temp worker used a 30-cm spindle to tighten the clamp collar on a plug in order to eliminate an air leak on a pipe section (pressure: 6 bar, diameter: 150 mm). The threaded pin broke and the plug was blasted by the pressurised air, seriously injuring the technician in the face with fractures to both his nose and jaw.

The administrative unit responsible for supervising pressurised equipment only learned of the accident on 12th August. Its investigation was conducted jointly with the Labour Inspectorate on 18th August.

Findings revealed that no procedure had been adopted for using clamped couplings, especially regarding torque and tightening steps. Employees were commonly relying on a 30-cm pin to reinforce clamping. The injured technician had not received any safety training when assigned to his post.

According to the coupling supplier, this equipment is only sold for use on pipelines carrying liquids and, under no circumstances, for compressible gases like air.