Welding explosion in the stern compartment.

Two painters at a shipyard were applying the final coat of paint in a confined aft compartment. They finished painting by noon, and upon leaving the compartment, they carelessly left the manhole cover partially open. There were no warning signs around the hatch.

Around 3 PM, a fitter boarded the ship to install a small engine base. His work area was near the aft compartment. When he tried to light his cutting torch, the fitter realized he didn't have his electronic lighter and asked a welder to help him light it. The welder casually used his welding tongs to strike an arc near the aft compartment hatch. A loud explosion followed, resulting in eight deaths and six injuries.
The main causes of the accident were:

(1) The flammable benzene vapor from the paint mixed with air, reaching explosive limits. The hot weather exacerbated the concentration of benzene vapor, leading to an immediate explosion upon ignition.

(2) No warning signs or safety personnel were present after the painting of the aft compartment.

(3) No ventilation measures were taken in the aft compartment after painting.

Main preventive measures:

(1) Warning signs and safety personnel should be placed around the aft compartment.

(2) Compressed air should be supplied to the aft compartment to reduce the concentration of flammable gases.

(3) Welders should be mindful of their surroundings when striking an arc, especially regarding flammable and explosive materials.