NT WORKSAFE has issued a safety alert regarding pressurising line markers after a unit exploded, injuring a school maintenance officer.
Two school maintenance offers were using a 25L Fountain line marker when the drum exploded along the length of the seam during pressurisation by a portable air compressor.
The explosion knocked one of the workers unconscious and inflicted facial injuries.
According to NT WorkSafe, the explosion was consistent with over-pressurisation. The line marker had not been designed or constructed to withstand the pressure under AS 1210 Unfired Pressure Vessels Code.
The machine was also not fitted with a pressure relief valve or pressure gauge.
NT WorkSafe says the line marker should have been pressurised with a hand pump, not a compressor. Directions outlined in the user manual should be followed when operating equipment.
Machines which are old or damaged should be checked by the manufacturer or supplier before any further use.
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