EASA SIB 2008-83
Failure of USDOT Type 3HT Passenger Oxygen Cylinder
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin SIB No: 2008-83 is an advisory document addressing the failure of USDOT Type 3HT passenger and crew stationary oxygen cylinders. It highlights a decompression incident on a Qantas Boeing 747-400 caused by a ruptured oxygen cylinder with part number 10003367, used on various aircraft including Airbus A300-600, A310, A320 series, Boeing 707, 727, 737, 747, 757, 767 series, and McDonnell Douglas DC-9, DC-10, and MD-11 series. The bulletin informs operators and maintenance organizations about the potential risk and ongoing investigation.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces awareness of a safety risk associated with USDOT Type 3HT oxygen cylinders, specifically those from a lot manufactured in early 1996 with serial numbers 535585 to 535678. It recommends that European organizations involved in inspection, testing, maintenance, and repair of these cylinders ensure compliance with manufacturer requirements and regulations. The bulletin also requests identification and reporting of any cylinders matching the affected part and serial numbers to EASA.
Why It Matters
The failure of oxygen cylinders can lead to serious safety incidents such as decompression, endangering aircraft integrity and passenger safety. Aviation professionals, including operators and maintenance teams, must be vigilant in inspecting and maintaining these cylinders to prevent similar failures. Early identification and reporting of affected cylinders support ongoing investigations and help mitigate risks across multiple aircraft types.
What To Do
Operators and maintenance organizations should review their inventories for USDOT Type 3HT oxygen cylinders with part number 10003367 and serial numbers within the specified range. They must ensure all oxygen cylinders are maintained according to manufacturer instructions and European regulations. Any identified cylinders matching the affected lot should be reported to EASA at ADs@easa.europa.eu to assist the investigation.
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