Caution advised on cellphone use due to ignition fears
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 April 2002
- Generated on 19 October 2025
- IMCA SF 03/02
- 1 minute read
A Member has passed on a report of an incident where a contracted specialist was working on an open panel supplying instrumentation gas.
What happened?
The contract specialist was carrying a cellphone that was turned on and rang while he was working on the panel. When he flipped it open to answer the call, a flash fire occurred, causing second degree burns on his forearms and a ‘sunburn’-type burn on his nose and cheeks.
Although people are aware of electronic devices being a source of ignition, there appears to be very little belief that this type of incident can really happen and, as a result, electronics are still being used with little regard to the potential danger.
Action
The company involved has banned cellphones from being used in the field concerned and has reasserted the danger electronic devices pose if not used in safe locations or in conjunction with a gas detector.
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.