Industrial Maintenance & Safety

Case Study : Industrial Accidents

Abdul Sami Sheikh 091420215

CASE STUDY
ELECTROCUTION BY FAULTY RESIDUAL CIRCUIT BREAKER Description of Accident Deceased was assigned to plaster the ceiling of the ground floor at the loading/unloading bay of a factory under construction. A boom lift was used to enable him to reach the ceiling for plastering. He was found lying on the ground at the loading/unloading bay. Autopsy reported deceased died of electrocution. Causes and Contributing Factors A pail of mixed cement and a cement mixing tool were found at the scene. A portable extension socket outlet that was connected to the main switch board was also found at the scene. Even though insulation tests performed on the cement mixing tool, extension socket outlet and main switch board were satisfactory, the autopsy revealed that the cause of death was consistent electrocution.

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Extension socket outlet A pail containing mixed Cement Trench Deceased was found lying here Cement mixing tool

 A residual circuit breaker (RCCB) installed at the main switch board was found to be defective.

Root Cause Analysis Evaluation of loss Type of contact Immediate cause(s) Basic cause(s) Failure of SMS Follow-up The occupier was instructed to implement the following improvements/measures at the worksite: Electrical tools, appliances and circuit breakers installed on the main switch boards are to be inspected by a qualified electrician monthly to ensure that they are in good working condition. All generator sets are to be inspected by a Licensed Electrical Worker before use. Recommendations Implement the use of Socket Outlet Assembly (SOA). Ensure all electrical tools, appliances and circuit breakers (including RCCB) installed on the main switch boards are inspected by a qualified electrician periodically to ascertain the working condition. Enforce the use of personal protective equipment. One worker killed Contact with electricity Defective tools, equipment or materials Inadequate maintenance Maintenance regime