Explosives safety alert no. 76 | 28 October 2013 | Version 1
An expired marine distress signal was accidentally initiated while being placed in a collection bin at a volunteer marine rescue (VMR) location. The distress signal was a Comet light smoke signal which produced dense orange smoke for approximately 15 minutes after its accidental ignition.
On this occasion there were no injuries however there was the potential for the distress signal to ignite other flares in the collection bin due to heat generated.
Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available. The information in this publication is what is known at the time of writing.
We issue Safety Notices to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident, raise awareness of risks, and prompt assessment of your existing controls.
Contact: Manager, Explosives Licensing , +61 7 3199 8057 explosives@dnrm.qld.gov.au
Issued by Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines
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All information on this page (Accidental initiation of distress signal in collection bin - https://www.rshq.qld.gov.au/safety-notices/explosives/accidental-initiation-distress-signal) is correct as of time of printing (Jul 28, 2024 12:05 am).