Piping and Ventilation.

I would like to share with the workforce this CSO ALERT that was brought to our attention in one of our safety meetings. Thanks to Charles Miller, General Safety Manager, for this information and the CSO ALERT executives.All the credits belong to them.

These incidents did not happen in our site -it is published to obtain more knowledge about safety practices, it is in no way judgemental or destructive criticism. Please follow your safety program's procedures and best work practices accordingly.

Piping and Ventilation.

Over the past two days, in different cities it has come to our attention of two incidents of PVC pipes exploding.

A 100 feet section of PVC pipe running from a cooling tower exploded while workers were welding in adjacent steel pipe. The cement used for PVC pipe is flammable and gases possibly lingered within the PVC pipe. Several workers were injured and others in the area are experiencing hearing related issues.

Please make sure that all projects when working around new piping, whether it is PVC, Cast Iron, or steel understand these pipes can be considered hazardous atmospheres (flammable, corrosive, toxic) particularly if welding or sealing operations are going on. When gases, vapors or fumes build up it can lead to explosions, fire and chemical burns, hearing loss, and damage to property. Particular attention must be given to the Material Safety Data sheets of any materials being worked with.

If working on an existing line, any residue left in that line could be a chemical that can burn, explode, be toxic, or become toxic by itself or when another agent is introduced.

Welding, cutting, and brazing are also hazardous activities that pose a unique combination of both safety and healthy risks as well. Even in metal cutting or repair jobs that are considered routine, workers should always follow established safety procedures. As a reminder, welding generates extremely high heat, which gives off fumes and create an extremely volatile atmosphere.

The recommendations are listed below.

Evaluate the workplace and the job. Identify the hazards and comply with OSHA CFR 1910.1200 Hazard Communication Standard.

Pre-Plan the work and decide what engineering and administrative controls will be put in place, including what equipment, such as PPE will be used.

Do not allow smoking in these areas.

Encourage ventilation of lines and bleed off of valves.

Train Employees to follow safe work practices.