ARIA : Feedback on technological accidents

The study of accidents in the field of industrial automation, which has already addressed sensors and the processing function, continues with this third part devoted to actuators. This summary presents the causes of accidents involving actuators and makes recommendations. In a context where automation is increasingly prevalent, instrumentation technologies must be controlled collectively to improve industrial safety at all levels (design, operation, maintenance, dismantling, etc.)

Spells of scorching heat always give way to episodes of intense rainfall and what are known as Cévennes rain events. In recent years, France has experienced many rain events that have resulted in flooding of industrial facilities. Although well known, the risk of flooding is sometimes underestimated, despite the fact that the repercussions can be considerable. What lessons can be learned from these accidents?

Subcontracting is a widespread feature of the industrial landscape: 74% of operators make use of such services. Since less than 10% of accidents involve a subcontractor it would appear that this practice does not represent a high level of risk. And yet the consequences can be severe. Through a series of examples, this dossier, co-written by BARPI and IRSN (Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety), depicts the nature of accidents linked with subcontracted activities. By analysing these incidents, we were able to draw up a list of recommendations and good practices, starting with the thorough preparation of the work[...]

As industrial operations resume in the wake of a health crisis, this Flash bulletin emphasises the recommendations derived from analyses of accidents occurring during the restart of operations. In addition to following the recommendations of the health authorities, it is important to conduct risk analyses to take account of the impact of these new modalities. Implementing supervision and communication measures should make it possible to ensure that technicians can resume their activities in complete safety and peace of mind.

The summary of this accident has not yet been translated. In the meantime, please refer to the French summary : Vers 2h35, un feu se déclare sur 2 sites industriels mitoyens dans une zone industrielle. L'un, classé Seveso Seuil Haut, fabrique des additifs pour lubrifiants. L'autre, non Seveso, exerce une activité d'entreposage de divers produits, dont certains proviennent de l'usine Seveso voisine. Les pompiers sont alertés par une entreprise tierce visualisant des flammes vers les 2 sites. L'incendie prend très vite de l'ampleur. Pour éviter un sur-accident, le personnel du site Seveso, aidé des pompiers, met hors d'atteinte les conteneurs[...]