Worker seriously injured while welding

A worker was seriously injured while using a defective portable oxy-fuel gas welder.

The incident happened when the acetylene fuel leaked between the connection of the hose and the welding torch, which then igniter resulting in an uncontrolled external flame directed back to the worker.

Inspection of the welding equipment has identified that this serious accident could have been prevented if the following actions had been taken;

  • Maintain equipment in accordance with minimum requirements as in Australian Standards: AS 4839-2001.
  • Complete prestart checks of welding equipment.
  • Ensure safety devices are securely fitted at both ends of the welding hose: flashback arrestors at the torch handle and the gas bottle.

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