With last weeks tragic accident in my old stomping grounds of DeRidder, LA I am reminded of OSHA’s laguage in 1910.252. I know of no other standard that has such “matter of fact” style language. In the standard, OSHA uses the phrase “absolutely certain” in regards to ensuring the “container” is gas/vapor free. In fact the standard goes as far as requiring the “container” be free of “any substances such as grease, tars, acids, or other materials which when subjected to heat, might produce flammable or toxic vapors”. In a paper mill a “foul codensate” tank fits these definitions darn near perfectly. We will have to wait until all the investigations are completed to know more, but in reality WELDING ON CONTAINERS has some ABSOLUTE REQUIREMENTS for a good reason. May the three contractors who died in this accident Rest In Peace and may God be with their loved ones.
1910.252(a)(3)(i) Used containers. No welding, cutting, or other hot work shall be performed on used drums, barrels, tanks or other containers until they have been cleaned so thoroughly as to make absolutely certain that there are no flammable materials present or any substances such as greases, tars, acids, or other materials which when subjected to heat, might produce flammable or toxic vapors. Any pipe lines or connections to the drum or vessel shall be disconnected or blanked.