16. WELDING AND FLAME CUTTING
Only the authorized network builders and maintenance personnel are allowed to
touch the temporary distribution networks (electric, gas and fire water networks)!
Gas leaks may occur, for example when there is a broken hose or valve. There is also a
risk with liquid gas and acetylene cylinders if the temperature rises. For example, the
safety valve on the liquid gas bottle will open because of pressure when the temperature
is over +40 oC.
If necessary, determine that there are no explosive gases, too little or too much oxygen
in the air (e.g. in tanks and other confined and closed spaces).
There are different practices with connectors at different yards.
Always check the hose connectors before attempting work in a new
location. If you connect a fresh air respirator to inert gas network,
an immediate suffocation may occur. The quick connectors must
meet the requirements of the standard SFS EN 561.
It is not allowed to use screw-tightened hose couplings on gas hoses. This type of
coupling gets loose when the hoses are dragged at the site.
Clothing might get contaminated with oxygen due to leakage or misuse of oxygen. The
easiest way for oxygen to accumulate is when you are working in confined spaces. A
high percentage of oxygen will accelerate a fire and protective clothing could catch on
fire just in a few seconds.
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