Hot cutting an oil drum containing residual vapour

Flammable liquids and vapours such as petrol, diesel, fuel oil, paints, solvents, glue, lacquer and cleaning agents are found in many places of work. If a welding torch or powered cutter is used on a tank or drum containing flammable material (solid, liquid or vapour), the tank or drum can explode violently. This film shows the serious consequences of hot cutting an oil drum that contains residual vapour. HSE would like to thank the Environmental Health Department of Ipswich Borough Council for providing access to this footage.