OSHA Injury Report: Philly Shipyard INC

At a glance

Where did this happen?

What was the outcome?

Before the incident

A work crew was performing hot work using a MAPP gas torch to cut metal components as part of an ongoing activity. The operation required a designated fire watch to monitor for sparks or potential ignition sources during and after the cutting task. The area had been prepared for hot work and was under a valid permit; however the positioning and communication between the operator and the fire watch were not properly coordinated prior to starting the task.

What happened

During the operation one of the employees was performing cutting activities with a MAPP gas torch. After completing the cut the employee turned around with the torch still ignited. The fire watch was positioned directly behind the employee within close proximity. As the employee turned the flame from the torch made contact with the fire watch’s sweater. The heat quickly penetrated the sweater fabric and reached the employee’s hands which were inside the sweater pocket. This caused second-degree burns to both hands and fingers.

Injury or illness

Partial thickness burn of back of right hand and single finger on left hand.

Object or substance involved

Heat Source: MAPP gas torch flame.

Summary line

Worker received 2nd degree burns to portions of the left and right hand. He was standing in close proximity to a welder who was setting up his work area. As the welder turned around the lit end of the torch made contact with the workers hands causing the

Employee and industry

When (timing detail)

Source

Data from OSHA ITA Form 300/301 electronic submissions, filing year 2025. ITA Case Detail records are establishment-reported submissions, not OSHA inspections — no per-record IMIS deep link exists.