Corrosion pitting on bailout cylinder
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 July 2002
- Generated on 14 January 2026
- IMCA SF 05/02
- 1 minute read
A Member has reported that during routine inspection and maintenance of the bailout cylinder, the diving supervisor found corrosion pitting on the cylinder body hidden beneath the harness strap.
Our Member took the following actions:
- The company reminded its personnel that:
- seawater trapped for prolonged periods between the cylinder and strap, coupled with the regular rubbing of the harness strap with the cylinder body could cause corrosion pitting on the cylinder.
- severe corrosion of the cylinder casing causes weakening of the cylinder which can fail with serious consequences.
- such equipment must be inspected regularly (see Guidance Document IMCA D018 Code of practice for the initial and periodic examination, testing and certification of diving plant and equipment).
- seawater trapped for prolonged periods between the cylinder and strap, coupled with the regular rubbing of the harness strap with the cylinder body could cause corrosion pitting on the cylinder.
- The bailout cylinder was taken out of service and sent for a full maintenance overhaul.
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