The following is a safety brief issued by American Electric Power Hydro Division
Background:
On October 23, 2011 an Underwater Kinetics Model SL4 Dive Light Flashlight (Catalog ID#0500011931) was placed on a work bench. The light was not in direct sunlight.
Incident:
The flashlight over pressurized. The flashlight was designed as a "dive light". After contacting the flashlight manufacturer, the plant was informed the flashlights are not to be stored with the batteries in them (see caution notice). The batteries had leaked gas into the flashlight housing, causing the flashlight housing to fail violently (see photo).
The manufacturer stated the batteries should be put in the lights before each use and removed after the dive operation is complete. However, the lights are packaged and shipped with the batteries installed.
Corrective Action to Prevent Reoccurrence:
The Underwater Kinetics Model SL4 Dive Light Flashlight will be removed and will not be purchased in the future. The lights are being replaced with a Pelican Model Stealth 2400 Flashlight (catalog ID# 0500011233). The Pelican Light has a valve that prevents accumulation of gas in the light.
Association of Diving Contractors International