# EXPLODING VESSELS UNDER PRESSURE
> MSHA accident `220182120007` · 07/23/2018 · Stillwater Mining Company
## Details
- **Degree of injury:** DAYS AWAY FROM WORK ONLY
- **Classification:** EXPLODING VESSELS UNDER PRESSURE
- **Accident type:** Struck by flying object
- **Occupation:** Miner, NEC
- **Activity:** Machine maintenance
- **Injury source:** METAL,NEC(PIPE,WIRE,NAIL)
- **Nature of injury:** CONTUSN,BRUISE,INTAC SKIN
- **Body part:** EYE(S) OPTIC NERVE/VISON
- **Days lost:** 3
- **Mine experience:** 19.46 years
## Operator
- **Controller:** Sibanye Stillwater Limited
- **Operator:** Stillwater Mining Company
- **Mine:** [2401490](https://api.ai-analytics.org/mine/2401490)
## Narrative

Employee went to bleed an air lock off a water pump, as they cracked open the 1 inch ball valve the steel nipple connecting the valve assembly to the discharge line failed at the threads causing the valve assembly to contact them on the right side of the head. Seen by site medic, referred to ER, then to an eye specialist where restrictions were issued for swelling to right eye.

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*Source: [MSHA Open Government Data](https://arlweb.msha.gov/OpenGovernmentData/) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*