Transformer explosion injures municipal electricians in Brits

What happened

A municipal transformer in Brits, South Africa, exploded while electricians from Madibeng Municipality were working on it. Two workers sustained burns. One was intubated at the scene and flown by emergency helicopter to a specialist hospital burn unit, where he was reported to be sedated and on a ventilator after smoke inhalation. The other was treated for less serious burns at a local hospital. Days later, another substation in Brits exploded and the municipal fire service attended. The municipality did not respond to questions about the explosions or the workers' condition.

Contributing factors

Not reported. The source says the workers were working on the transformer when it exploded, but it does not give a cause.

Lessons learned

1. Work on a transformer needs verified isolation and a clear emergency plan before anyone starts.
2. Burns and smoke inhalation can worsen after the scene, so injured workers need prompt specialist care and follow-up.
3. A further substation failure in the same town within days is a reason to inspect similar equipment, even when the cause of the first event is not yet known.

More lessons on electrical protection and isolation, worker safety and safe systems of work, maintenance, inspection and ageing assets, from every incident on the register.

Source

kormorant.co.za