Failure of Gas Cartridge Fire Extinguisher
The fire extinguisher propelled upwards and struck the fire extinguisher operator in the neck and chin area resulting in fatal injuries.
Lessons Learned
There were signs of corrosion on the base of the extinguisher and it is thought that this may have contributed to the fire extinguisher failure. As a precautionary measure it is advised that all cartridge-type fire extinguishers (in simple terms those which do not have a pressure gauge attached) should be inspected immediately. Those which show signs of significant corrosion or severe pitting should be removed from service and replaced.
Recommended Actions
Visually inspect all gas cartridge operated fire extinguishers that are located in potentially corrosive environments. Check for signs of significant corrosion or severe pitting on the body and base of the fire extinguisher. Where there is a sign of corrosion or severe pitting on the extinguisher, take the extinguisher out of service immediately and replace it with a new unit.
During inspection, accessories such as rubber bases or mounting brackets should be removed to ensure a complete visual examination of the unit. If you are in doubt of the severity of the corrosion, take the extinguisher out of service and have it tested in line with manufacturer's guidelines.
Potentially corrosive environments include:
- fire extinguishers stored outside, unprotected from the weather
- fire extinguishers stored in wet/damp environments or in standing water
- fire extinguishers stored near marine environments, jetties, platforms, shipping or any facility located near salt water
- fire extinguishers stored on or near chemical processing facilities
NB: An investigation team is currently working to determine the system causes of the incident and will report in due course. This may result in further recommendations.
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