Starter gun caps ignite in pocket | Resources Safety & Health Queensland
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Explosives safety alert no. 78 | 25 November 2013 | Version 1

Starter gun caps ignite in pocket

What happened?

An athletic club race starter placed a sheet of starter caps in his back pocket together with a 50 cent piece and later competed in a long jump event. During the event eight of the 60 starter caps ignited in his pocket. The ignition burnt holes in his clothing as seen in the photo below. It is likely the impact from the jump ignited the caps which were in contact with the coin.

Recommendations

  1. Carry caps in a rigid container. Don't carry starter caps loose in your pocket or hand. Caps are explosives which are sensitive to ignition from friction and impact, especially when in contact with hard surfaces. They can cause serious injuries from accidental ignition and improper use.
  2. Limit the quantity of caps to the immediate number needed.
  3. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and precautions for storage, handling and use. Avoid exposure to high temperatures and conditions of impact and abrasion.

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.

Authorised by Geoff Downs - Chief Inspector of Explosives

Contact: Manager, Explosives Licensing , +61 7 3199 8057

Issued by Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines

Safety: This information is a guide only and is issued to promote safety through experience. It is not to be taken as a statement of law and must not be construed to waive or modify any legal obligation.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RSHQ respectfully acknowledges all Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the country on which we live and work. We acknowledge their continuing connection to land, waters and culture and commit to ongoing reconciliation. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present.