LNRC Gravel in Valves
Incident Date
1971-12-05
Incident Description
LNRC 1971 - When diving with two sets it is customary to clip the spare second stage strap through the one in use. With open valve mouthpieces this allows grit to enter the spare second stage so that when the diver comes to swap gags grit enters the exhaust valve and may cause a leak.
Lessons Learned
A solution adopted in the 1980s is to fit a fine gauze across the mouthpiece to prevent the ingress of gravel. Ed.
| Factors |
|
| Line Management |
Negligible |
| Gas Management |
Negligible |
| Equipment Management |
Major |
| Equipment Failure |
Minor |
| Training |
Minor |
| Medical |
Negligible |
| Planning |
Negligible |
| Procedural Error |
Minor |
| Cave Environment |
Negligible |
| Weather |
Negligible |
| Other Factor |
Unknown |
