MSA Failure

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MSA Failure What happened: An operative had just entered the shaft with his MSA, when he began to smell burning and realised the MSA casing was getting hot. The MSA began to smoke and as a result the operative dropped the MSA on the floor. Flames became visible from the sides of the MSA (around seal area). The MSA was extinguished with an extinguisher and a bucket of water. There is potential that the seal may have failed during its use (although inspected weekly by PC), allowing water/air into unit which may have started the reaction with the potassium crystals, whilst still in the encased unit. This would have generated the heat (ignition source) which activated the compressed air starter capsule (potentially when it was dropped), causing the heat reaction and leading to the MSA breaking out in flames within its case . The type of MSA is a SavOx device. Investigations are ongoing with MSA Technologies

Future Considerations:  

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Increase frequency of visual inspections to focus on the MSA casing and seals as part of the PUWER inspection. Users should check the indicator and complete their own visual inspections of the kit upon issue

Users to report any damages either on issue or that may have occurred during their possession i.e. if they have been dropped or the casing damaged During storage ensure MSAs are stored appropriately i.e. on shelving and if possible kept in a waterproof satchel Educate the workforce on the use and risks of MSAs through training or briefings

Date: 13th July 2015