Shell EPW Wells HSE Early Learning Bulletin

1
Shell EPW Wells HSE Early Learning
Bulletin Fountain No 149669 Location S.
Texas Date 12/30/2007 Risk Ranking
Actual Level 1 People Potential C-3 People
   What happened MTC BATTERY SHORTS OUT,
BLOWS TOP OFF AND EE SUFFERS ACID BURNS. Prior
to a rig move, two rig crewmembers were charging
the batteries on the backup generator unit in
preparation for needed auxiliary power during rig
down operations. After charging the batteries
for a short time, one crewmember attempted to
start the generator engine, and one of the 24
Volt batteries exploded. Battery acid contacted
the crewmembers forearms and face. The rig crew
immediately began flushing him with water and
notified the rig Supervisors. The crewmember was
transported to a local medical clinic and
subsequently was transferred to a local Medical
Center Emergency Room. The crewmember was
examined and treated for chemical irritation to
his eyes.

• Preliminary Learning Points
•  
• Cause of the battery failure has not yet been
  determined, but thought to be due to an internal
  short.
• Battery box cover should be re-installed after
  battery maintenance/charging and prior to
  cranking the engine to provide a barrier in case
  of similar failures.
•  
• The crewmember was wearing required basic PPE
  (safety glasses), which mitigated a potentially
  more severe exposure of acid to the eyes.
•  
• A JSA for charging/boosting batteries will be
  developed. Applicable hazards and associated
  risk mitigation steps will be identified,
  including replacement and securing of battery box
  lid.
•  
• 
  

 This Learning Bulletin provides preliminary
learnings. A detailed investigation is pending.