15 May Appreciating The Hazards Of Oxyacetylene

Appreciating the Hazards of Oxyacetylene

Oxyacetylene equipment is commonly used for welding, cutting, heating, and brazing. Because experienced workers may use this equipment routinely, it can be easy to overlook how much stored energy, fire, and explosion potential is involved.

Oxygen and acetylene each present different hazards, and both must be handled correctly every time.

Compressed Gas Cylinders

Oxygen and acetylene cylinders contain gas under pressure. Damage to a cylinder valve can cause a sudden and dangerous release of energy.

• Secure cylinders upright to prevent them from falling or being knocked over.
• Protect cylinder valves from damage.
• When cylinders are not connected for use, remove regulators when appropriate and install required valve-protection caps.
• Move cylinders using approved carts or handling equipment.
• Never lift, drag, roll, or handle cylinders in a manner that could damage the cylinder or valve.

Acetylene Pressure

Acetylene becomes dangerously unstable at elevated pressures. Never use acetylene at pressures greater than 15 psi.

Use regulators, hoses, and equipment specifically designed for the gas and application. Never attempt to increase pressure beyond safe operating limits to improve torch performance.

Keep Oxygen Away From Oil and Grease

Oxygen does not burn by itself, but it causes other materials to burn much more rapidly. Oil, grease, and other petroleum products can react violently with oxygen under pressure.

• Never apply oil or grease to oxygen cylinders, valves, regulators, fittings, or other oxygen equipment.
• Keep hands, gloves, tools, and equipment clean when handling oxygen systems.
• Never use oxygen as a substitute for compressed air.

Open Valves Carefully

Open cylinder valves according to the manufacturer’s instructions and established procedures. When opening an oxygen cylinder valve, do so slowly and stand to the side of the regulator, not directly in front of it.

Inspect regulators, gauges, hoses, connections, torches, and fittings before use. Damaged, leaking, contaminated, or malfunctioning equipment should be removed from service until properly repaired or replaced.

Prevent Gas Leaks

Close cylinder valves when equipment is not in use. Even a small leak can allow gas to accumulate and create a serious fire or explosion hazard.

Check hoses and connections regularly and follow approved procedures for detecting leaks. Never use a flame to check for a gas leak.

Oxygen Is Not Ventilation

Never use oxygen to ventilate a confined space, cool yourself, blow dust from clothing, or operate equipment intended for compressed air. Oxygen enrichment can cause clothing and other combustible materials to ignite more easily and burn extremely rapidly.

Remember

Oxyacetylene equipment can be used safely when its hazards are understood and controlled. Secure cylinders, protect valves, keep oxygen equipment free of oil and grease, never exceed safe acetylene pressure, inspect equipment, control leaks, and follow established hot-work procedures.