Sudden ice plug release results in struck-by injury

While converting from air to mud, the employee was attempting to reinstall the pressure gauge on the standpipe manifold. When he removed the bull plug from the manifold, he noticed ice had accumulated inside the two-inch (5cm) line. He notified the Driller and then attempted to remove the ice using a hand tool. Trapped pressure existed inside the lower section of the standpipe. As the ice dislodged from the line, it struck the employee in the ribs on the right side, causing internal injuries. He sustained further injuries when he fell back into the handrail striking his shoulder.

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