Hydraulic hand pump (Enerpac) hose failure
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 December 1999
- Generated on 16 May 2026
- IMCA SF 07/99
- 2 minute read
A Member has reported that while extending an hydraulic arm on a tooling system using a (enerpac) hydraulic pump, rated for 10,000 psi (680 bar), the output hose burst next to the coupling at the end of the output hose.
Our member’s investigation revealed the following:
On investigation, it was found that the enerpac output hose was rated for 3,000 psi (200 bar) and had been damaged (kinked) prior to use. In addition to this, the enerpac pressure gauge was facing away from the pump operator, resulting in the operator not knowing what pressure the enerpac was generating. Fortunately in this case no injuries were sustained.
The contractor involved has issued the following reminder to its personnel:
- Equipment such as hydraulic hand pumps (Enerpac) and associated equipment should be visually inspected prior to use for damage, to ensure integrity and to ensure that pressure gauges, etc., are working correctly.
- Always use a gauge to verify system pressure.
- Be aware of the safe working pressure of all parts of the system – the output hoses may be rated at a lower pressure than other parts of the system.
- Full personal protective equipment (PPE) including eye protection should be utilised by all personnel in the area, not only the system operator.
- Risk assessments should be revisited.
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.