TOOL 5

MODEL CUTTING AND WELDING SAFETY PROCEDURES

Cutting and welding is one of the most common causes of industrial fires.  The heat of an acetylene torch or electric arc welding in conjunction with the sparks and slag generated can easily cause a fire if the proper precautions are not taken.

To lessen this potential hazard, a cutting and welding permit system should be utilized *.  This system should be utilized for any cutting and welding that is done outside the designated area.  This permit system will be used by facility welders and by outside contractors.  Contractors must be made aware that they will have to use established procedures upon arrival at the facility.

The Maintenance Manager or Supervisor is charged with implementing this program.

The procedure is as follows:

When cutting or welding is proposed, the Maintenance Manager or Supervisor must investigate the area where the welding is to take place.  The specific items that should be checked prior to welding are noted on the back of the permit.

Critical Items

Area is free of combustible materials.  Check for combustible materials both above and below the work site.  Combustible material would include scrap paper, blanket wash, inks and pallets and rolled paper.

A fire watch is provided during the cutting and welding operations.  The individuals providing the fire watch must have the proper fire extinguishers available and be trained in their use.
A fire watch should be provided for a minimum of 30 minutes after the cutting and welding operations are complete.  Please remember that there are no coffee breaks for the fire watch during this period of time.

*Red Tag Permit systems have been developed by FM Global and other organizations including but not limited to Educational Institutions. No Red Tag system should be utilized unless authorized by the developing entity. Some of these systems may be Copyrighted and others may be in the public domain but use of these systems should be by permission only.

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