The study was performed by DNV-GL on commission from the PSA. The objective was to provide an up-to-date status concerning the use of and incidents involving bolts, along with recommendations for any development requirements in order to reduce risk.
The focus on bolts must be maintained throughout the entire life of the facility, from the individual manufacturer to the operator’s design and maintenance.
The study shows that falling objects represent the dominant hazard and accident situation in reported incidents involving bolt connections, and recommends that the sector should define clearer requirements for the whole bolt connection over its entire life.
The PSA will present the results of the study in professional forums and discuss with the industry how to strengthen standardisation work.