HSE/GNN.NE/226/07 14 June 2007

HSE issues warning on transport of acetylene cylinders following explosion in Front Street, Wolsingham

On Saturday 26 May 2007, an explosion occurred in a van travelling along Front Street, Wolsingham, County Durham which resulted in the death of the driver, 33 year old Andrew Herd.  The lead for the investigation has now transferred from Durham Constabulary to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). 

The initial investigation has established that the incident is most likely to have been caused by an explosion of acetylene gas from oxy-acetylene cutting equipment being carried in the vehicle.  HSE has served a Prohibition Notice on the driver’s employer, Ward Bros Plant Hire Ltd of Langley Moor, Durham, preventing the carriage of acetylene cylinders in closed vehicles until a number of specific precautions have been taken.

HSE's investigation into the underlying issues leading to the explosion is ongoing.  In the meantime, all users of oxy-acetylene equipment are being asked to urgently review their safety precautions. 

Pam Waldron, HSE’s Head of Operations in the North East, said: "Whilst the investigation continues, it is important that all users of oxy-acetylene equipment review their cylinder transport arrangements.  Instruction and training of employees in safe operation, including regular checks of equipment condition and functioning, are needed to prevent any releases.  In addition such gases are best transported properly secured in an open vehicle; if an enclosed vehicle is used, it should have adequate ventilation."

Ends

Notes to editors

1. Under Section 22 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, HSE inspectors have the power to serve Prohibition Notices where they are of the opinion there is a risk of serious personal injury. A Prohibition Notice specifies the activities which must be stopped and may set out how the matters giving rise to the Notice should be remedied.
2. Standards are laid down in L138 – Dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres: Approved Code of Practice and Guidance to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (ISBN 0 7176 2203 7), available from HSE Books (tel. no. 01787 881165).
3. Guidance can be found in the British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) Code of Practice CP31 ‘Safe Storage and Use of Cylinders Mobile Workshops and Service Vehicles’ (Rev 1: 2005).  Details are available on the BCGA website – www.bcga.co.uk.                                                                                        

Issued on behalf of HSE by Government News Network North East.  For more information, contact Jackie Woods/Jill Barber on 0191 202 3604/3609