Pipe under tension on a reel
- Safety Flash
- Published on 16 February 2007
- Generated on 18 June 2026
- IMCA SF 01/07
- 1 minute read
A Member has relayed a report of an incident involving a reel containing pipe under tension at a third party’s onshore facility.
What happened?
An employee, unaware that the pipe was under tension, removed the ratchet strap securing the pipe on the reel. When the tension was released, the pipe sprang out and struck the employee above the left eye, causing a wound which required subsequent medical treatment.
There was a caution label warning that the pipe was under tension. However, this was on the flange of the reel and not clearly visible.
Photographs relating to this incident are shown below (swipe for more).
how the pipe was secured on the reel using a ratchet strap
the unwound reel after the ratchet strap was removed and the stored energy released
the warning label that was on the flange of the reel
Actions
The following actions were recommended:
- Tensioned pipes should be tied off/secured using either a mechanical ‘U’ clamp or pipe clamp with a ratchet strap (or rigging) being used as a back up.
- Any warning signs should be attached to the pipe end or near the securing mechanism such that they are clearly visible to all personnel who will be handling the reel and pipe.
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.