[Occupational injuries caused by breakages of hoses].

During the period 1.1.1984-31.12.1986, 77 accidents caused by breakages of hoses or connections in connection with snap-couplings were notified to the Danish Directorate of National Labour Inspection. These consisted of 33 (42.9%) accidents in connection with employment pressurized air hoses, 25 (32.5%) accidents in connection with employment of steam hoses or hoses with warm water and 19 (24.7%) accidents while employing hoses with chemicals. Accidents with pressurized air resulted in bruising on the neck, head, eyes and upper limbs. Accidents with steam hoses caused scalds scattered over the entire body. Accidents with hoses containing chemicals were mainly responsible for corrosive injuries to the eyes. Prophylactic measures which would probably have prevented approximately 85% of the abovementioned injuries are suggested.