Another pressuring test “gone bad”. I want to remind anyone who wonders how to DEFINE and QUANTIFY a “safe distance” when piping is being pressure tested, especially when that test is a “pneumatic” test. ASME PCC-2–2022, Repair of Pressure Equipment and Piping, Mandatory Appendix, 501-III, Safe Distance Calculations for Pneumatic Pressure Test is an EXCELLENT resource to use.
I have gotten some pushback in audits and hazard analyses that this standard ONLY applies to the pressure testing AFTER a repair has been made. So, I simply ask them how they define and quantify a “safe distance,” as stated in B31.3 or 31.5.
Need I remind everyone what these RAGAGEPs state in regards to establishing a “safe distance”:
(emphasis by me)
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B31.3, APPENDIX F – PRECAUTIONARY CONSIDERATIONS F345.5.1 Precautions Consideration should be given to the risk associated with the release of stored energy and to the establishment of the MINIMUM SAFE DISTANCE between personnel and the equipment being tested. Equations and considerations are available in ASME PCC-2, Repair of Pressure Equipment and Piping, Article 5.1. |
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On January 8, 2003, Employee #1 was working near (about 10 feet) a pipe undergoing a pressure test. The pipe was filled with nitrogen, measured approximately 25 feet in length, and had a diameter of 12 inches. During the pressure test, the pipe reached a pressure of 1550 psi. For some reason, the pipe exploded. Employee #1 was hospitalized and pronounced dead due to injuries sustained in the explosion. CLICK HERE for OSHA Case File
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