NZ: Major electricity provider commits to $1.15m safety spend after a "steam hammer" event
A major New Zealand electricity provider will invest $1.15 million in safety upgrades following a dangerous steam hammer incident.
The following article is an abridgement of an article originally published by WorkSafe NZ.
One of New Zealand's major electricity providers, has pledged a substantial investment of $1.15 million towards enhancing worker safety. This commitment follows a critical incident at its Rotokawa power station in July 2021, prompting a partnership with WorkSafe New Zealand to implement proactive safety measures.
"Steam hammer" incident
In July 2021, an uncontrolled release of geothermal steam, known as a 'steam hammer' event, occurred at the Rotokawa power station. Steam hammer is created when steam meets cooler liquid in pipework and fittings, causing intense vibration which was lead to catastrophic failure.
Although no injuries were reported, the potential dangers to workers were significant. The investigation revealed deficiencies in plant installation decisions, risk assessment, and communication protocols.
WorkSafe's regulatory support manager, Catalijne Pille said:
“The loss of containment was incredibly dangerous. The pipework had been exposed to extreme forces, with an intensity that ejected flange bolts, split valve bonnets, and tore welded fixings."
Enforceable undertaking
In response to the incident, the provider has submitted an enforceable undertaking to WorkSafe New Zealand, outlining a comprehensive safety improvement plan. Key initiatives include:
- Trialling a self-driving vehicle for plant inspections.
- Delivering a leadership program to foster a proactive safety culture.
- Introducing hazard awareness training for high-risk environments.
- Sharing resources and lessons learned with the industry.
Ms Pille comments on the trial of self-driving vehicles:
"Emerging technologies have huge potential for health and safety. [The company] plans to trial self-drive vehicles to supplement in-person operator rounds which can only be good for safety. The data insights will aid decision-making and help with continuous improvement of processes and procedures."
This commitment has led to the discontinuation of WorkSafe's charges against the company. However, WorkSafe will monitor progress closely and retain the option to resume prosecution if necessary.
Sources
Electricity provider commits to $1.15m safety spend by WorkSafe NZ, 9th April, 2024.
