Subsea oxy-arc cutting – risk of explosion
- Safety Flash
- Published on 15 December 2010
- Generated on 11 December 2025
- IMCA SF 08/10
- 1 minute read
The International Association of Oil & Gas producers (OGP) has published the attached safety flash (OGP safety alert number 227), entitled Subsea oxyarc cutting – risk of explosion.
Recommendations
The safety flash recommends that double isolations that perform a complete break in both poles of the circuit should be used between the surface generator and the diver to form a more effective and dependable isolation.
Members are reminded that subsea oxy-arc cutting operations are addressed in IMCA D003 Guidelines for oxy-arc cutting, and IMCA D022 Guidance for diving supervisors– chapter 12, section 15.
Guidance contained within the diving supervisor’s manual includes that the knife switch should be mounted in such a way that it cannot fall or be knocked into the on position. Ideally it should be a double pole switch enclosed in a protective wood or plastic box with only the handle showing.
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.