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(continued)
s 6062. Post Dive Procedures.
(a) General. The employer shall comply with the following requirements which are applicable after each diving operation, unless otherwise specified:
(1) After the completion of a day's diving the designated-person-in-charge shall observe the physical condition of each diver and shall conduct an interview regarding any physical problems or symptoms of decompression sickness.
(2) Advise the diver of the location of a decompression chamber which is ready for use; and
(3) Alert the diver to the potential hazards of flying after diving.
(b) Recompression Capability.
(1) A decompression chamber capable of recompressing the diver at the surface to a minimum of 165 fsw (6 ATA) shall be available at the dive location for:
(A) Surface-supplied air-diving to depths deeper than 100 fsw and shallower than 220 fsw;
(B) Mixed-gas diving shallower than 300 fsw; or
(C) Diving outside the no-decompression limits shallower than 300 fsw.
(2) A chamber capable of recompressing the diver at the surface to the maximum depth of the dive shall be available at the dive location for dives deeper than 300 fsw.
(3) The decompression chamber shall be:
(A) Dual-lock;
Note: Dual-lock is meant to include multi-lock components if each is large enough to transfer personnel and supplies into and out of the main compartment while it is pressurized. Medical locks do not meet the intent of this requirement. A diving bell or manned deep diving system capable of mating with a decompression chamber would meet this requirement.
(B) Multiplace; and
(C) Located within 5 minutes of the dive location.
(4) The decompression chamber shall be equipped with:
(A) A pressure gauge for each pressurized compartment designed for human occupancy;
(B) A built-in-breathing-system with a minimum of one mask per occupant;
(C) A two-way voice communication system between occupants and a dive team member at the dive location;
(D) A viewport; and
(E) Illumination capability to light the interior.
(5) Treatment Table. Treatment gas appropriate to the diving mode, and sufficient gas to conduct treatment shall be available at the dive location.
(6) A dive team member shall be available at the dive location during and for at least one hour after the dive to operate the decompression chamber (when required or provided).
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6063. Equipment Requirements.
(a) Decompression Chambers.
(1) Each decompression chamber manufactured after the effective date of this standard, shall be built and maintained in accordance with the ASME Code or equivalent.
(2) Each decompression chamber manufactured prior to the effective date of this standard shall be maintained in conformity with the code requirements to which it was built, or equivalent.
(3) Each decompression chamber shall be equipped with:
(A) Means to maintain the atmosphere below a level of 25 percent oxygen by volume;
(B) Mufflers on intake and exhaust lines, which shall be regularly inspected and maintained;
(C) Suction guards on exhaust line openings; and
(D) A means for extinguishing fire, and shall be maintained to minimize sources of ignition and combustible material.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
Appendix A
Examples of Conditions Which May Restrict or Limit Exposure to Hyperbaric
Conditions
The following disorders may restrict or limit occupational exposure to hyperbaric conditions depending on severity, presence of residual effects, response to therapy, number of occurrences, diving mode, or degree and duration of isolation.
History of seizure disorder other than early febrile convulsions .
Malignancies (active) unless treated and without recurrence for 5 years.
Chronic inability to equalize sinus and/or middle ear pressure.
Cystic or cavitary disease of the lungs.
Impaired organ function caused by alcohol or drug use.
Conditions requiring continuous medication for control (e.g., antihistamines, steroids, barbiturates, moodaltering drugs, or insulin).
Meniere's disease
Hemoglobinopathies.
Obstructive or restrictive lung disease.
Vestibular end organ destruction.
Pneumothorax. Cardiac abnormalities (e.g., pathological heart block, valvular disease intraventricular conduction defects other than isolated right bundle branch block, angina pectoris, arrhythmia, coronary artery disease).
Juxta-articular osteonecrosis.
Appendix B
Diving for Scientific Purposes
This Appendix contains guidelines that will be used in conjunction with Section 6050(a)(1)(E) to determine those scientific diving programs which are exempt from the requirements for commercial diving. The guidelines are as follows:
1. The Diving Control Board consists of a majority of active scientific divers and has autonomous and absolute authority over the scientific diving program's operations.
2. The purpose of the project using scientific diving is the advancement of science; therefore, information and data resulting from the project are non-proprietary.
3. The tasks of a scientific diver are those of an observer and data gatherer. Construction and trouble-shooting tasks traditionally associated with commercial diving are not included within scientific diving.
4. Scientific diver, based on the nature of their activities, must use scientific expertise in studying the underwater environment and, therefore, are scientists or scientists in training.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6070. Application.
The Orders in this Article shall apply whenever persons are employed in compressed air, exclusive of diving work.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6074. Definitions.
The following definitions shall apply in the application of these Orders.
Air Lock (Personnel): A chamber through which employees pass from one air pressure environment into another.
Bulkhead: An airtight structure separating the working chamber from free air or from another chamber under a different pressure than the working pressure.
Caisson: A wood, steel, concrete or reinforced air and water-tight chamber in which it is possible for employees to work under air pressure greater than atmospheric pressure.
Compressed Air Environment (Hyperbaric Condition): A work site where the ambient pressure is greater than the atmospheric pressure at the entrance to the work site.
Decanting (surface decompression): A method used for decompressing under certain circumstances. In this procedure the workers are brought to atmospheric pressure with a very high gas tension in the tissues and then immediately re-compressed in a second and separate chamber or lock.
Division: The current Division of Occupational Safety and Health, any predecessors, or any subsequent successor agency.
Emergency Locks: A lock designed to hold and permit the quick passage of an entire shift of employees.
High Air: Air pressure used to supply power to pneumatic tools and devices.
Low Air: Air supplied to pressurize working chambers and locks.
Materials Lock: An air lock through which materials and equipment pass from one air pressure environment into another.
Hyperbaric Chamber: A chamber in which employees are treated for decompression sickness and/or air embolism. It may also be used in pre-employment physical examinations to determine the adaptability of the prospective employee to changes in pressure.
Normal Condition: One during which exposure to compressed air is limited to a single continuous working period followed by a single decompression in any given 24-hour period; the total time of exposure to compressed air during the single continuous is not interrupted by exposure to normal atmospheric pressure, and a second exposure to compressed air does not occur until at least 12 consecutive hours of exposure to normal atmospheric pressure have elapsed since the worker has been under pressure.
Pressure: A force acting on a unit area. Usually shown as pounds per square inch (psi).
Absolute Pressure (psi): The sum of the atmospheric pressure and gauge pressure (psig).
Ambient Pressure: Encompassing pressure surrounding all sides.
Atmospheric Pressure: The pressure of air at sea level, usually 14.7 psi (one atmosphere), or 0 Psig.
Gauge Pressure (psig): That pressure measured by a gauge and indicating the pressure exceeding atmospheric.
Safety Screen: An air- and water-tight diaphragm placed across the upper part of a compressed air tunnel between the face and bulkhead, in order to prevent flooding the crown of the tunnel between the safety screen and the bulkhead, thus providing a safe means of refuge and exit from a flooding or flooded tunnel.
Special Decompression Chamber: A chamber to provide greater comfort for employees when the total decompression time exceeds 75 minutes.
Working Chamber: The space or compartment under air pressure in which the work is being done.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6075. General Provisions.
(a) No work, where persons are employed in compressed air, shall be started until 7 days after the firm, corporation, commission, or person undertaking such work has notified, in writing, the Division of such contemplated work.
(b) The employer shall ensure that a competent person, who is familiar with these and other applicable safety orders, is present at the work site at all times when employees are required to work in a compressed air environment.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6080. Compression Rate.
(a) During the compression of employees, the pressure shall not be increased to more than 3 psig within the first minute. The pressure shall be held at 3 psig and again at 7 psig sufficiently long to determine if any individuals are experiencing discomfort. After the first minute the pressure is to be raised uniformly and at a rate not to exceed 10 psi per minute. If any employees complain of discomfort, the pressure will be held to determine if the symptoms are relieved. If after 5 minutes the discomfort does not disappear, the lock attendant shall gradually reduce the pressure, until the employee signals that the discomfort has ceased. If the employee does not indicate that the discomfort has disappeared, the lock attendant shall reduce the pressure to atmospheric and the employee shall be released from the lock.
(b) No employee shall be subjected to pressure exceeding 50 pounds per square inch except in an emergency.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6085. Decompression for Normal Conditions.
Decompression for normal condition shall be in accordance with the Decompression Tables. (See Decompression Table No. 1 and No. 2 in Appendix A.)
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6087. Decompression After Repetitive Exposures.
In the event it is necessary for an employee to be in compressed air more than once in a 24-hour period, the appointed physician shall be responsible for the establishment of methods and procedures of decompression applicable to repetitive exposures. (See Appendix B.)
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6089. Decompression by Decanting.
If decanting is necessary, the appointed physician shall establish procedures before anyone is permitted to be decompressed by decanting methods. The period of time that the employees spend at atmospheric pressure between the Recompression following the shift and recompression shall not exceed 5 minutes.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6090. Air Locks.
(a) Except in emergency, no employees employed in compressed air shall be permitted to pass from the working chamber to atmospheric pressure until after decompression, in accordance with the procedures in either Appendix A, Appendix B, or Section 6089.
(b) The time of decompression shall be posted in each air lock.
(c) The lock attendant shall be under the direct supervision of the physician required by Section 6120 and stationed at the lock controls on the free air side during the period of compression and decompression. The lock attendant shall remain at the lock control station whenever there are employees in the working chamber or in the air lock.
(d) Except where air pressure in the working chamber is below 12 psig, each air lock shall be equipped with suitable automatic controls which automatically regulate decompressions. It shall also be equipped with manual controls to permit the lock attendant to override the automatic system in the event of an emergency.
(e) A manual control, which can be used in the event of an emergency, shall be placed inside the air lock.
(f) For each 8-hour shift, a record of employees employed under compressed air shall be kept by the lock attendant. This record shall show period of stay in the working chamber of each employee and the time taken for decompression.
(g) A clock, thermometer, and continuous recording pressure gauge with a 4-hour graph shall be installed outside of each air lock and shall be changed prior to each shift's decompression. The chart shall be of sufficient size to register a legible record of variations in pressure within the air lock and shall be visible to the lock attendant. A copy of each graph shall be submitted to the physician after each shift. In addition, a pressure gauge, clock, and thermometer shall also be installed in each air lock. Additional fittings shall be provided so that test gauges may be attached whenever necessary.
(h) Except where air pressure is below 12 psig and there is no danger of rapid flooding, all caissons having a working greater than 150 square feet and each bulkhead in tunnels of 14 feet or more in diameter, or equivalent area, shall have at least 2 locks in perfect working condition, 1 of which shall be used exclusively as an air lock. Where only a combination air and materials lock is required, this single lock shall be of sufficient capacity to hold the employees constituting two successive shifts. If emergency locks are provided, they shall be large enough to hold an entire heading shift and a limit maintained of 12 psig. There shall be a chamber available for oxygen decompression therapy to 28 psig.
(i) The air lock shall be large enough so that those using it are not compelled to be in a cramped position, and shall not have less than 5 feet clear head room at the center and a minimum of 30 cubic feet of air space per occupant.
(j) Locks on caissons shall be so located that the bottom door shall be not less than 3 feet above the water level surrounding the caisson on the outside. (Note: The water level, where it is affected by tides, is construed to mean high tide.)
(k) In addition to the pressure gauge in the locks, an accurate pressure gauge shall be maintained on the outer and inner side of each bulkhead. These gauges shall be accessible at all times and shall be kept in accurate working order.
(l) Air locks shall be illuminated and shall have an observation port at least 4 inches in diameter located in such a position that all occupants of the air lock may be observed from the working chamber and from the free air side of the lock.
(m) Air locks shall be maintained at a minimum temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, dry bulb.
(n) When locks are not in use and employees are in the working chamber, lock doors shall be kept open to the working chamber, where practicable.
(o) All locks shall be constructed in accordance with the Unfired Pressure Vessel Safety Orders of the Division.
(p) Adequate ventilation shall be provided in accordance with Section 5143.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6095. Special Decompression Chamber.
(a) General. A special decompression chamber of sufficient size to accommodate the entire force of employees being decompressed at the end of a shift shall be provided whenever the regularly established working period requires a total time of decompression exceeding 75 minutes.
(b) Size, Capacity, and Construction. The headroom in the special decompression chamber shall be not less than 7 feet and the cubical content shall provide at least 50 cubic feet of air space for each person. For each occupant there shall be provided 4 square feet of free walking area and 3 square feet of seating space exclusive of area required for lavatory and toilet facilities. The rated capacity shall be based on the stated minimum space per person and shall be posted at the chamber entrance. The posted capacity shall not be exceeded, except in case of emergency. The chamber shall be constructed in accordance with the Unfired Pressure Vessel Safety Orders.
(c) Equipment. Each special decompression chamber shall be equipped with the following:
(1) A clock or clocks suitably placed so that the attendant and the chamber occupants can readily ascertain the time;
(2) Pressure gauges which will indicate to the attendants and to the chamber occupants the pressure in the chamber;
(3) Valves to enable the attendant to control the supply and discharge of compressed air into and from the chamber;
(4) Valves and pipes in connection with the air supply and exhaust arranged so that the chamber pressure can be controlled from within and without;
(5) Effective means of oral communication between the attendant, occupants of the chamber, and the air compressor plant;
(6) An observation port at the entrance to permit observation of the chamber occupants
(7) Suitable mufflers at large air pressure drops.
(d) Seating Facilities. Seating facilities in special decompression chambers shall so arranged as to permit a normal sitting posture. Seating space not less than 18 inches by 24 inches wide shall be provided per occupant.
(e) Automatic Controls. Special decompression chambers shall be equipped with automatic controls complying with Section 6090(d) and (e).
(f) Sanitation. Adequate toilet and washing facilities in a screened or enclosed recess shall be provided. Toilet bowls shall have a built-in protector on the rim so that an air space is created when the seat lid is closed. Potable drinking water shall be provided. This may be accomplished by either piping water into the special decompression chamber and providing drinking fountains, or by providing individual canteens or by some other sanitary means. Common drinking vessels shall be prohibited. The chamber shall be kept clean.
(g) Location. Unless the special decompression chamber is serving as the air lock to atmospheric pressure, the special decompression chamber shall be situated where practicable, adjacent to the air lock on the atmospheric pressure side of the bulkhead. A passageway shall be provided connecting the special chamber with the air lock to permit employees in the process of decompression to move from the air lock to the special chamber without a reduction in the ambient pressure from that designated for the next stage of decompression. The passageway shall be so arranged as to not interfere with the normal operation of the air lock nor with the release of the occupants of the special chamber to atmospheric pressure upon the completion of the decompression procedure.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6100. Temperature, Illumination, Sanitation and Ventilation.
(a) Temperature of all working chambers which are subjected to compressed air shall, by means of after-coolers or other suitable devices, be maintained at a temperature not to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
(b) Illumination in compressed air chambers shall be by electricity exclusively and two independent electric-lighting systems with independent sources of supply shall be used. The emergency source shall be arranged to become automatically operative in the event of failure of the regularly used source. Electrical installations and equipment shall comply with applicable portions of the Electrical Safety Orders in Title 8 of the CCR.
(c) The minimum intensity of illumination on any walkway, ladder, stairway, or working level shall not be less than 10-foot candles, and in all work places the illumination shall at all times be such as to enable employees to see clearly.
(d) Sanitary, heated, illuminated, and ventilated dressing rooms and drying rooms shall be provided for all employees engaged in compressed air work. Such rooms shall contain suitable benches and lockers. Bathing accommodations (showers at the ratio of 1 to 10 employees per shift) equipped with running hot and cold water along with suitable and adequate toilet accommodations shall be provided. One toilet for each 15 employees, or fractional part thereof, shall be provided. While in a compressed air environment and the toilet bowl is shut by a cover, there shall be an air space so that the bowl or bucket does not implode when the pressure is increased. All parts of caissons and other working compartments shall be kept in a sanitary condition.
(e) Ventilation in the locks and chambers, with the exception of the medical chamber, shall be such that the air quality meets the requirement of Section 5144(e).
(f) Exhaust valves and exhaust pipes shall be provided and operated so that the working chamber shall be well ventilated, and there shall be no pockets of dead air. Outlets may be required at intermediate points along the main low pressure air supply line to the heading to eliminate such pockets of dead air. Ventilating air shall be not less than 30 cubic feet per minute per person.
(g) The air in the workplace shall be analyzed by the employer not less than once each shift, and records of such tests shall be kept on file at the place where the work is in progress. The test results shall be within the permissible exposure limits (PEL's) specified in the Section 5155, for hazardous gases and within 10 percent of the lower explosive limit of flammable gases.
(h) Forced ventilation shall be provided during decompression. During the entire decompression period, forced ventilation through chemical or mechanical air purifying devices that will ensure a source of fresh air shall be provided.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6105. Compressor Plant, Air Supply and Telephone Communication.
(a) There shall at all times be a qualified gauge tender on duty at the air control valves to regulate the pressure in the working areas. During tunneling operations, one gauge tender may regulate the pressure in not more than two headings provided that the gauges and controls are all in one location. In caisson work there shall be a gauge tender for each caisson.
(b) The low air compressor plant shall be of sufficient capacity to not only permit the work to be done safely, but shall provide a margin to meet anticipated emergencies and repairs.
(c) Low air compressor units shall have at least two independent and separate sources of power supply. Each independent and separate source of power supply shall be capable of operating the entire low air plant and its accessory systems.
(d) The capacity, arrangement, and number of compressors shall be sufficient to maintain the necessary pressure without overloading the equipment and to assure maintenance of such pressure in the working chamber during periods of breakdown, repair, or emergency.
(e) Switching from one independent source of power supply to the other shall be done periodically to ensure the workability of the apparatus in an emergency.
(f) Duplicate low pressure air feed lines and regulating valves shall be provided between the source of air supply and a point beyond the locks with one of the lines extending to within 100 feet of the working face.
(g) To prevent rapid decompression all air supply lines shall be equipped with check valves.
(h) Low pressure air shall be regulated automatically. In addition, manually operated valves shall be provided for emergency conditions.
(i) The air intakes for all air compressors shall be located at a place where fumes, exhaust gases, and other air contaminants will be at a minimum.
(j) Gauges indicating the pressure in the working chamber shall be installed in the compressor building, the lock attendant's station, and at the Field Office of the employer's representative.
(k) There shall be effective communication at all times between the following:
(1) The working chamber face;
(2) The working chamber side of the air lock near the door;
(3) The interior of the air lock;
(4) Lock attendants station;
(5) The compressor plant;
(6) The first-aid station;
(7) The emergency lock (if one is required);
(8) The special decompression chamber (if one is required).
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6110. Bulkheads and Screens.
(a) Intermediate bulkheads with locks or intermediate safety screens or both shall be required where there is the danger of rapid flooding.
(b) In tunnels 16 feet or more in diameter, hanging walkways shall be provided from the face to the air lock, as high in the tunnel as practicable, with at least 6 feet of head room. Walkways shall be constructed of noncombustible material. Standard railing shall be securely installed throughout the length of all walkways on open sides. Where walkways are ramped under safety screens, the walkway surface shall be skidproofed by cleats or equivalent means.
(c) Bulkheads used to contain compressed air shall be tested, where practicable, to prove their ability to resist the highest air pressure which may be expected to be used.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6115. Fire Prevention.
(a) Tunnels shall be provided with a 2-inch minimum diameter water line extending into the working chamber and to within 100 feet of the working face. Such line shall have hose outlets with 100 feet of fire hose properly attached and maintained as follows: one at the working face; one immediately inside the bulkhead of the working chamber; and one immediately outside such bulkhead. In addition, hose outlets shall be provided at 200-foot intervals throughout the length of the tunnel and 100 feet of fire hose shall be attached to the outlet nearest to any location where flammable material is being kept or stored or where any flame is being used.
(b) Fire hose shall be at least 11/2 inches in nominal diameter. Water pressure shall at all times be adequate for efficient operation of the type of nozzle used and the water supply shall be such as to ensure an uninterrupted flow. Fire hose, when not in use, shall be located or guarded to prevent injury thereto.
(c) In addition to fire hose protection required by this section, on every floor of every building not under compressed air, but used in connection with the compressed air work, there shall be provided at least one approved extinguisher of the proper type for the hazard involved. At least two approved fire extinguishers shall be provided in the working chamber as follows: one at the working face and one immediately inside the bulkhead (pressure side). Extinguishers in the working chamber shall use water as the primary extinguishing agent and shall not use any extinguishing agent which could be harmful to the employees in the working chamber. The fire extinguisher shall be protected from damage.
(d) No persons shall be permitted to smoke or carry smoking materials in compressed air.
(e) While welding or flame cutting is being done in compressed air, a watch person with a fire hose or approved extinguisher shall stand by until such operation is completed.
(f) Highly combustible materials shall not be used or stored in the working chamber. Wood, paper, and similar combustible material shall not be used in the working chamber in quantities which could cause a fire hazard. The compressor building shall be constructed of noncombustible materials.
(g) Air locks shall be equipped with a manual-type fire extinguisher system that can be activated inside the air lock and also by the outside lock attendant. In addition, a fire hose and portable fire extinguisher shall be provided inside and outside the air lock. The portable fire extinguisher shall be the dry chemical type.
(h) Equipment, fixtures, and furniture in air locks and special decompression chambers shall be constructed of noncombustible materials. Bedding and other furnishings shall be chemically treated so as to be fire-resistant.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6120. Medical Control.
(a)(1) There shall be retained 1 or more physicians licensed in the State of California familiar with and experienced in the physical requirements for the medical aspects of compressed air work. The physician shall be available at all times while work is in progress in order to provide medical supervision of employees employed in compressed air work. The physician shall meet the physical qualifications of a compressed air worker and be willing to enter a pressurized environment.
(2) No employee shall be permitted to enter a compressed air environment until qualified by a physician in accordance with Section 6053.
(3) An oxygen tolerance test shall be passed by all persons engaged in compressed air work.
(4) In the event an employee is absent from work for 10 or more consecutive days the employee shall be determined to be medically fit to resume compressed air work by the physician.
(5) Medical records shall be kept as required by applicable parts of Section 6058.
(b) Except when the air pressure in the working chamber is below 14 psig a medical chamber shall be established and maintained in immediate working order. The medical chamber shall:
(1) Have at least six feet of clear headroom at the center, and be subdivided into not less than two compartments.
(2) Be readily accessible to employees working under compressed air.
(3) Be kept ready for immediate use for at least five hours subsequent to the emergence of any employee from the working chamber.
(4) Be properly heated, lighted and ventilated.
(5) Be maintained in a sanitary condition.
(6) Have a non-shatterable port through which the occupant(s) may be kept under constant observation.
(7) Be constructed and tested in accordance with the Unfired Pressure Vessel Safety Orders; the medical lock shall be retested whenever it has been out of service for more than 1 year and whenever it is moved from one location to another.
(8) Be designed for a working pressure of 75 psig.
(9) Be equipped with internal controls which may be overridden by external controls.
(10) Be provided with air pressure gauges to show the air pressure within each compartment to observers inside and outside the medical chamber.
(11) Be equipped with a quick acting automatic sprinkler system.
(12) Be provided with oxygen lines and fittings leading into external tanks. The lines shall be fitted with check valves to prevent reverse flow.
(13) Be in constant charge of an attendant under the direct control of the retained physician. The attendant shall be trained in the use of the chamber and suitably instructed regarding steps to be taken in the treatment of employees exhibiting symptoms compatible with a diagnosis of decompression sickness.
(14) Be located adjacent to an emergency medical facility. The emergency medical facility shall be equipped, as required by the retained physician, with approved demand type oxygen inhalation equipment.
(15) Be capable of being maintained at a temperature, in use, not to exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit nor be less than 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
(16) Be provided with sources of oil free air, both normal and emergency, which are capable of raising the air pressure in the chamber from 0 to 75 psig in five minutes.
(c) Identification badges shall be furnished to all employees, indicating that the wearer is a compressed air worker. The badge shall give employee's name, address of the medical chamber, the phone number of the licensed physician for the compressed air project, and contain instructions that in case of an emergency of unknown or doubtful cause or illness, the wearer shall be rushed to the medical chamber. The badge shall be worn at all times off the job as well as on the job.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
Appendix A
Decompression Tables
1.EXPLANATION.The decompression tables are computed for working chamber pressures from 0 to 14 pounds, and from 14 to 50 pounds per square inch gauge inclusive by 2-pound increments and for exposure times for each pressure extending from 1/2 to over 8 hours inclusive. Decompressions will be conducted by 2 or more stages with a maximum of 4 stages, the latter for a working chamber pressure of 40 pounds per square inch gauge or over.
Stage 1 consists of a reduction in ambient pressure ranging from 10 to a maximum of 16 pounds per square inch, but in no instance will the pressure be reduced below 4 pounds at the end of stage 1. This reduction in pressure in stage 1 will always take place at a rate not greater than 5 pounds per minute.
Further reduction in pressure will take place during stage 2 and subsequent stages as required at a slower rate, but in no event at a rate greater than 1 pound per minute.
Decompression Table No. 1 indicates in the body of the table the total decompression time in minutes for various combinations of working chamber pressure and exposure time.
Decompression Table No. 2 indicates for the same various combinations of working chamber pressure and exposure time the following:
a. The number of stages required;
b. The reduction in pressure and the terminal pressure for each required stage;
c. The time in minutes through which the reduction in pressure is accomplished for each required stage;
d. The pressure reduction rate in minutes per pound for each required stage;
IMPORTANT NOTE: THE PRESSURE REDUCTION IN EACH STAGE IS ACCOMPLISHED AT A UNIFORM RATE. DO NOT INTERPOLATE BETWEEN VALUES SHOWN ON THE TABLES. USE THE NEXT HIGHER VALUE OF WORKING CHAMBER PRESSURE OR EXPOSURE TIME SHOULD THE ACTUAL WORKING CHAMBER PRESSURE OR THE ACTUAL EXPOSURE TIME, RESPECTIVELY, FALL BETWEEN THOSE FOR WHICH CALCULATED VALUES ARE SHOWN IN THE BODY OF THE TABLES.
Examples:
DECOMPRESSION TABLE NO. 1
Total Decompression Time - Minutes
DECOMPRESSION TABLE NO. 2
Do not interpolate, use next higher value for conditions not computed. OSHSB-05 (T8-REFORM)
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
Appendix B
The information contained in the following pages is adapted from the U. S. Navy Diving Tables and is to be used when an employee will enter a compressed air environment more than once within a 12-hour period.
The Division may accept alternate methods of decompression for repetitive exposures provided the licensed physician submits proposed procedures to the Division for its review and approval.
The Department of the Navy is in no way liable for the use or misuse of Tables 3, 4, and 5.
TABLE 3
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE OF TABLE 3
The tabulated compressed air exposure times are in minutes. The times at the various pressures in each vertical column are the maximum exposures during which a compressed air worker will remain within the group listed at the head of the column.
To find the repetitive group designation enter the table on the exact or next greater working pressure than that to which exposed and select the listed exposure time exact or next greater than the actual exposure time. The repetitive group designation is indicated by the letter at the head of the vertical column where the selected exposure time is listed.
For example: An exposure in compressed air was for 45 minutes at 26 psig. To determine the repetitive group enter the table at 27 psig (the next higher pressure, as 26 psig is not listed) and move horizontally until 50 minutes (the next greater tabulated exposure time, as 45 minutes is not listed), then move vertically to the top of the column where "H" is shown as the repetitive group.
TABLE 4
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE OF TABLE 4 Open air interval time in the table is in hours and minutes (2:20 means 2 hours and 20 minutes). The open air interval must be at least 10 minutes. Find the repetitive group designation from Table 3 on the diagonal slope. Enter the table horizontally to select the listed open air interval time that is exactly or NEXT GREATER than the actual open air interval time. The repetitive group designation for the end of the open air interval is at the head of the vertical column where the selected open air interval time is listed. For example: A previous compressed air exposure was for 4.5 minutes at 30 psig. The compressed air worker decompresses according to Table 2 and remains in open air for 1 hour and 30 minutes and wishes to find the new repetitive group designation. From Table 3 the repetitive group at the start of the open air interval is "I". Now enter Table 4 at "I" on the diagonal slope and move horizontally to the column having 2:02 listed, which is the next greater time, since 1: 30 in not tabulated. A sufficient amount of Inert gas has now been lost to place the compressed air worker in group "F". * NOTE:Compressed air exposures following open air intervals of more than 12 hours are not considered multiple exposures. ACTUAL compressed air exposure time will be used for the determination of decompression time for open air intervals greater than 12 hours.
TABLE 5
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE OF TABLE 5
The compressed air exposure times listed in this table are called "residual nitrogen times" and are the times a compressed air worker is to consider already spent in compressed air when starting a repetitive exposure to a specific pressure. They are in minutes.
Enter the table horizontally with the repetitive group designation from the Open Air Interval Credit Table (table 4). The time in each vertical column is the number of minutes that would be required (at the pressure listed at the head of the column) to saturate to the particular group.
For example: The final group designation from the Open Air Interval Credit Table (table 4) on the basis of a previous exposure and open air interval is "H." It is planned to re-enter compressed air at a pressure of 42 psig. What time must be added to the actual time spent in compressed air? Enter table 5 on row H. Since 42 psig is greater than 40 psig but less than 45 psig, use the longer time of 33 minutes. This means that the compressed air worker enters the compressed air environment as though the worker had already been at 42 psig for 33 minutes.
The exposure time listed in table 5 is added to the actual time spent in compressed air. Decompression is carried out based on the sum of the actual exposure time and the time from table 5 for the pressure encountered. Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6150. Definitions.
(a) Definitions.
(1) Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). A fluorinated surfactant with a foam stabilizer which is diluted with water to act as a temporary barrier to exclude air from mixing with the fuel vapor by developing an aqueous film on the fuel surface of some hydrocarbons which is capable of suppressing the generation of fuel vapors.
(2) Automatic Fire Detection Device. A device designed to automatically detect the presence of fire by heat, flame, light, smoke or other products of combustion.
(3) Carbon Dioxide. A colorless, odorless, electrically nonconductive inert gas (chemical formula CO sub2) that is a medium for extinguishing fires by reducing the concentration of oxygen or fuel vapor in the air to the point where combustion is impossible.
(4) Dry Chemical. An extinguishing agent composed of very small particles of chemicals such as, but not limited to, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, urea-based potassium bicarbonate, potassium chloride, or monoammonium phosphate supplemented by special treatment to provide resistance to packing and moisture absorption (caking) as well as to provide proper flow capabilities. Dry chemical does not include dry powders.
(5) Dry Powder. A compound used to extinguish or control Class D fires.
(6) Extinguisher Rating. The numerical rating given to an extinguisher which indicates the extinguishing potential of the unit based on standardized tests developed by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
(7) Fire Extinguishers, Portable.
(A) Portable fire extinguishers are classified for use on certain classes of fires and rated for relative extinguishing effectiveness at a temperature of plus 70 degrees Fahrenheit by nationally recognized testing laboratories. This is based upon the classification of fires and the fire-extinguishment potentials as determined by fire tests.
(B) The classification and rating system described in this standard is that used by Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., and Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada and is based on extinguishing preplanned fires of determined size and description as follows:
1. Class A Rating -Wood and excelsior.
2. Class B Rating -Two-inch depth n-heptane fires in square pans.
3. Class C Rating -No fire test. Agent must be a nonconductor of electricity.
4. Class D Rating -Special tests on specific combustible metal fires.
(8) Fires.
(A) Class A. Fires in ordinary combustible materials, such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics.
(B) Class B. Fires in flammable or combustible liquids, gases, greases and similar materials and some rubber and plastic materials.
(C) Class C. Fires which involve energized electrical equipment where the electrical nonconductivity of the extinguishing media is of importance. (When electrical equipment is de-energized, extinguishers for Class A or B fires may be used safely.)
(D) Class D. Fires in combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, sodium, and potassium.
(9) Fixed Extinguishing System. A permanently installed system that either extinguishes or controls a fire at the location of the system.
(10) Foam. A stable aggregation of small bubbles which flow freely over a burning liquid surface and form a coherent blanket which seals combustible vapors and thereby extinguishes the fire.
(11) Gaseous Agent. A fire extinguishing agent which is in the gaseous state at normal room temperature and pressure. It has low viscosity, can expand or contract with changes in pressure and temperature, and has the ability to diffuse readily and to distribute itself uniformly throughout an enclosure.
(12) Halon 1211. A colorless, faintly sweet smelling, electrically nonconductive liquefied gas (chemical formula CBrC l F sub2) which is a medium for extinguishing fires by inhibiting the chemical chain reaction of fuel and oxygen. It is also known as bromochlorodifluoromethane.
(13) Halon 1301. A colorless, odorless, electrically nonconductive gas (chemical formula CBrF sub3) which is a medium for extinguishing fires by inhibiting the chemical chain reaction of fuel and oxygen. It is also known as bromotrifluoromethane.
(14) Inspection. A visual check of fire protection systems and equipment to ensure that they are in place, charged, and ready for use in the event of fire.
(15) Local Application Systems. A fixed fire suppression system which has a supply of extinguishing agent, with nozzles arranged to discharge extinguishing agent directly on the burning material to extinguish or control a fire.
(16) Maintenance. The performance of services on fire protection equipment and systems to assure that they will perform as designed in the event of a fire. Maintenance differs from inspection in that maintenance requires the checking of internal fittings, devices and agent supplies.
(17) Multipurpose Dry Chemical. A dry chemical which is approved for use on Class A, Class B and Class C fires.
(18) Pre-Discharge Employee Alarm. An alarm which will sound at a set time prior to actual discharge of an extinguishing system so that employees may evacuate the discharge area prior to system discharge.
(19) Small Hose System. A system of hose ranging in diameter from 5/8-inch to 1 1/2-inch (1.8 cm to 3.8 cm) which is for the use of employees and which provides a means for the control and extinguishment of incipient stage fires.
(20) Sprinkler Alarm. A local alarm unit is an assembly of apparatus approved for the service and so constructed and installed that any flow of water from a sprinkler system equal to or greater than that from a single automatic sprinkler will result in an audible alarm signal on the premises.
(21) Sprinkler System. A sprinkler system, for fire protection purposes, is an integrated system of underground and overhead piping designed in accordance with fire protection engineering standards. The in stallation includes a water supply, such as a gravity tank, fire pump, reservoir or pressure tank and/or connection by underground piping to a city main.
The portion of the sprinkler system above ground is a network of specially sized or hydraulically designed piping installed in a building, structure or area, generally overhead, and to which sprinklers are connected in a systematic pattern. The system includes a controlling valve and a device for actuating an alarm when the system is in operation. The system is usually activated by heat from a fire and discharges water over the fire area.
(22) Standpipes.
(A) Class.
1. Class I. For use by fire departments and those trained in handling heavy fire streams (not less than 2 1/2-inch hose).
Class I Service shall be capable of furnishing the effective fire streams required during the more advanced stages of fire on the inside of buildings or for exposure fire.
2. Class II. For use primarily by the building occupants until the arrival of the fire department (1 1/2-inch hose).
Class II Service shall afford a ready means for the control of incipient fires by the occupants of buildings during working hours, and by watchmen and those present during the night time and holidays.
3. Class III. For use by either fire departments and those trained in handling heavy hose streams or by the building occupants.
Class III Service shall be capable of furnishing the effective fire streams required during the more advanced stages of fire on the inside of buildings as well as providing a ready means for the control of fires by the occupants of the building.
(B) Type. Standpipe systems may be of the following types:
1. Wet standpipe system having supply valve open and water pressure maintained at all times.
2. Standpipe system so arranged through the use of approved devices as to admit water to the system automatically by opening a hose valve.
3. Standpipe system arranged to admit water to the system through manual operation of approved remote control devices located at each hose station.
4. Dry standpipe having no permanent water supply. (Title 24, T8-6150)
(23) Total Flooding System. A fixed suppression system which is arranged to automatically discharge a predetermined concentration of agent into an enclosed space for the purpose of fire extinguishment or control.
Note: Authority and reference cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 6151. Portable Fire Extinguishers.
(a) Scope and Application. The requirements of this Section apply to the placement, use, maintenance, and testing of portable fire extinguishers provided for the use of employees. Section (d) of this section does not apply to extinguishers provided for employee use on the outside of workplace buildings or structures. Where extinguishers are provided but are not intended for employee use and the employer has an emergency action plan and a fire prevention plan which meet the requirements of Sections 3220 and 3221 then only the requirements of Sections (e) and (f) of this Section apply.
(b) Exemptions.
(1) Where the employer has established and implemented a written fire safety policy which requires the immediate and total evacuation of employees from the workplace upon the sounding of a fire alarm signal and which includes an emergency action plan and a fire prevention plan which meet the requirements of Sections 3220 and 3221 and when extinguishers are not available in the workplace, the employer is exempt from all requirements of this section unless a specific Section in Title 8 requires that a portable fire extinguisher be provided.
(2) Where the employer has an emergency action plan meeting the requirements of Section 3220 which designates certain employees to be the only employees authorized to use the available portable fire extinguishers, and which requires all otheremployees in the fire area to immediately evacuate the affected work area upon the sounding of the fire alarm, the employer is exempt from the distribution requirements in Section (d) of this Section. (continued)