Shell Fined £60,000 After Worker Injured on Oil Platform
Published in Oil Industry News on Tuesday, 7 August 2018
Oil firm Shell has been fined £60,000 after a technician was seriously injured offshore.
The worker was struck by a cylinder on the Brent Delta platform on November 10, 2014.
Shell UK admitted a health and safety breach and was issued the fine on Friday, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said.
Aberdeen Sheriff Court heard how a technician rolled what he thought was an empty gas cylinder along the floor and took off the protective cap before realizing it was fully charged.
The trigger mechanism activated and the force of the gas released caused him to drop the cylinder to the floor.
The cylinder and valve became projectiles, which struck and severely injured a second technician.
HSE found the company failed to ensure risks associated with the handling of pressurised cylinders were eliminated.
The company also failed to remove pressurized cylinders which were not suitable for use in a safe and secure manner and to ensure appropriate information was provided in respect of the handling and use of energized gas cylinders, HSE said.
HSE inspector David Josiah said: "This incident could so easily have been avoided by simply carrying out correct control measures and safe working practices.
"Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standard."Source: stv.tv