MKC88IA025

An EMS helo was consumed in a fire while parked at a hospital heliport. The helo had recently returned fm a medevac flt and the on-board patient oxygen pressure was low. Two respiratory therapists participated in refilling the system after the flt. The system is serviced via a rear baggage compartment, accessed fm outside the acft. The attendants indicated that after the connection was made and the valve was partially opened, a fire erupted near the connection. Subsequent to the fire, one of the therapists remembered the presence of oil abv the baggage door. This area of oil was not wiped clean prior to commencing the fill operation. Subsequent to the fire, the valve was tested and significant leaking at the connection was present. After the test a wrench was needed to separate the components for inspn. The inspn provided no evidence of debris or distortioon of the threaded portion of the connection. There was no intent for flight in this particular operation and no flt crew was present.