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(continued)
WAC 296-304-02007 (1) and (2) hot work. This is a reminder that other sections of the WISHA shipyard safety and health standards in chapter 296-304 WAC should be reviewed prior to starting any hot work. Most notably, WAC 296-304-040 through 296-304-04013, welding, cutting and heating, places additional restrictions on hot work: The requirements of WAC 296-304-04001 and 296-304-04005 must be met before hot work is begun on any metal that is toxic or is covered by a preservative coating respectively; the requirements of WAC 296-304-04007 must be met before welding, cutting, or heating is begun on any structural voids.
WAC 296-304-02003 (1)(b). During hot work, more than 20.8 percent oxygen by volume can be unsafe since it extends the normal flammable range. The standard permits the oxygen level to reach 22.0 percent by volume in order to account for instrument error. However, the cause of excess oxygen should be investigated and the source removed.
WAC 296-304-02011(2). If the entire vessel has been found to be in the same condition, then employers shall be considered to be in compliance with this requirement when signs using appropriate warning language in accordance with WAC 296-304-02011(1) are posted at the gangway and at all other means of access to the vessel.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-02013, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95.]
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296-304-02015
Appendix B — Confined and enclosed spaces and other dangerous atmospheres in shipyard employment.
This appendix provides a complete reprint of U.S. Coast Guard regulations as of October 1, 1993 referenced in WAC 296-304-020 for purposes of determining who is a Coast Guard authorized person.
(1) Title 46 CFR 35.01-1 (a) through (c) covering hot work on tank vessels reads as follows:
(a) The provisions of "Standard for the Control of Gas Hazards on Vessels to be Repaired," NFPA No. 306, published by National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269, shall be used as a guide in conducting the inspections and issuance of certificates required by this chapter.
(b) Until an inspection has been made to determine that such operation can be undertaken with safety, no alterations, repairs, or other such operations involving riveting, welding, burning, or like fire-producing actions shall be made:
(i) Within or on the boundaries of cargo tanks that have been used to carry flammable or combustible liquid or chemicals in bulk, or within spaces adjacent to such cargo tanks; or
(ii) Within or on the boundaries of fuel tanks; or
(iii) To pipe lines, heating coils, pumps, fittings, or other appurtenances connected to such cargo or fuel tanks.
(c) Such inspections shall be made and evidenced as follows:
(i) In ports or places in the United States or its territories and possessions, the inspection shall be made by a marine chemist certificated by the National Fire Protection Association; however, if the services of such certified marine chemists are not reasonably available, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, upon the recommendation of the vessel owner and his/her contractor or their representative, shall select a person who, in the case of an individual vessel, shall be authorized to make such inspection.
(ii) If the inspection indicates that such operations can be undertaken with safety, a certificate setting forth the fact in writing and qualified as may be required, shall be issued by the certified marine chemist or the authorized person before the work is started.
(iii) Such qualifications shall include any requirements as may be deemed necessary to maintain, insofar as can reasonably be done, the safe conditions in the spaces certified, throughout the operation and shall include such additional tests and certifications as considered required.
(iv) Such qualifications and requirements shall include precautions necessary to eliminate or minimize hazards that may be present from protective coatings or residues from cargoes.
(2) Title 46 CFR 71.60(c)(1) covering hot work on passenger vessels reads as follows:
(a) The provisions of "Standard for the Control of Gas Hazards on Vessels to be Repaired," NFPA No. 306, published by National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269, shall be used as a guide in conducting the inspections and issuance of certificates required by this chapter.
(b) Until an inspection has been made to determine that such operation can be undertaken with safety, no alterations, repairs, or other such operations involving riveting, welding, burning, or like fire-producing actions shall be made:
(i) Within or on the boundaries of cargo tanks which have been used to carry flammable or combustible liquid or chemicals in bulk, or within spaces adjacent to such cargo tanks; or
(ii) Within or on the boundaries of fuel tanks; or
(iii) To pipe lines, heating coils, pumps, fittings, or other appurtenances connected to such cargo or fuel tanks.
(c) Such inspections shall be made and evidenced as follows:
(i) In ports or places in the United States or its territories and possessions the inspection shall be made by a marine chemist certificated by the National Fire Protection Association; however, if the services of such certified marine chemist are not reasonably available, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, upon the recommendation of the vessel owner and his/her contractor or their representative, shall select a person who, in the case of an individual vessel, shall be authorized to make such inspection.
(ii) If the inspection indicated that such operations can be undertaken with safety, a certificate setting forth the fact in writing and qualified as may be required, shall be issued by the certified marine chemist or the authorized person before the work is started.
(iii) Such qualifications shall include any requirements as may be deemed necessary to maintain, insofar as can reasonably be done, the safe conditions in the spaces certified throughout the operation and shall include such additional tests and certifications as considered required.
(iv) Such qualifications and requirements shall include precautions necessary to eliminate or minimize hazards that may be present from protective coatings or residues from cargoes.
(3) Title 46 CFR 91.50-1(c)(1) covering hot work on cargo and miscellaneous vessels as follows:
(a) The provisions of "Standard for the Control of Gas Hazards on Vessels to be Repaired," NFPA No. 306, published by National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269, shall be used as a guide in conducting the inspections and issuance of certificates required by this chapter.
(b) Until an inspection has been made to determine that such operation can be undertaken with safety, no alterations, repairs, or other such operations involving riveting, welding, burning, or like fire-producing actions shall be made:
(i) Within or on the boundaries of cargo tanks which have been used to carry flammable or combustible liquid or chemicals in bulk, or within spaces adjacent to such cargo tanks; or,
(ii) Within or on the boundaries of fuel tanks; or,
(iii) To pipe lines, heating coils, pumps, fittings, or other appurtenances connected to such cargo or fuel tanks.
(c) Such inspections shall be made and evidenced as follows:
(i) In ports or places in the United States or its territories and possessions the inspection shall be made by a marine chemist certificated by the National Fire Protection Association; however, if the services of such certified marine chemist are not reasonably available, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, upon the recommendation of the vessel owner and his/her contractor or their representative, shall select a person who, in the case of an individual vessel, shall be authorized to make such inspection.
(ii) If the inspection indicated that such operations can be undertaken with safety, a certificate setting forth the fact in writing and qualified as may be required, shall be issued by the certified marine chemist or the authorized person before the work is started.
(iii) Such qualifications shall include any requirements as may be deemed necessary to maintain, insofar as can reasonably be done, the safe conditions in the spaces certified throughout the operation and shall include such additional tests and certifications as considered required.
(iv) Such qualifications and requirements shall include precautions necessary to eliminate or minimize hazards that may be present from protective coatings or residues from cargoes.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-02015, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95.]
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296-304-030
Surface preparation and preservation — Scope and application.
All sections of this chapter which include WAC 296-304-030 in the section number apply to surface preparation and preservation and WAC 296-304-03001 to 296-304-03009 applies only to shipbuilding and ship repairing.
[Order 74-25, § 296-304-030, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-03001
Toxic cleaning solvents.
(1) When toxic solvents are used, the employer shall employ one or more of the following measures to safeguard the health of employees exposed to these solvents.
(a) The cleaning operation shall be completely enclosed to prevent the escape of vapor into the working space.
(b) Either natural ventilation or mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be used to remove the vapor at the source and to dilute the concentration of vapors in the working space to a concentration which is safe for the entire work period.
(c) The employer must ensure that employees are protected against:
? Toxic vapors by suitable respiratory protective equipment that meets the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC; and
? Exposure of skin and eyes to contact with toxic solvents and their vapors by suitable clothing and equipment.
(2) The principles in the threshold limit values to which attention is directed in WAC 296-304-02005 and applicable sections in chapters 296-62 and 296-841 WAC will be used by the department of labor and industries in enforcement proceedings in defining a safe concentration of air contaminants.
(3) When flammable solvents are used, precautions shall be taken in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-304-03009.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. 05-03-093, § 296-304-03001, filed 1/18/05, effective 3/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040,[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 98-02-006, § 296-304-03001, filed 12/26/97, effective 3/1/98. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-03001, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), § 296-304-03001, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; Order 76-7, § 296-304-03001, filed 3/1/76; Order 74-25, § 296-304-03001, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-03003
Chemical paint and preservative removers.
(1) The employer must ensure that employees are protected against:
? Skin contact during the handling and application of chemical paint and preservative removers; and
? Eye injury by goggles or face shields that meet the requirements of WAC 296-304-09005 (1) and (2).
(2) When using flammable paint and preservative removers precautions shall be taken in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-304-03009.
(3) When using chemical paint and preservative removers which contain volatile and toxic solvents, such as benzol, acetone and amyl acetate, the provisions of WAC 296-304-03001 shall be applicable.
(4) The employer must ensure that employees using paint and rust removers containing strong acids or alkalies are protected by suitable face shields to prevent chemical burns on the face and neck according to the requirements of WAC 296-304-09005 (1) and (2).
(5) The employer must ensure that all employees working within range of a steam gun blast are protected by suitable face shields according to the requirements of WAC 296-304-09005 (1) and (2). Metal parts of the steam gun itself must be insulated to protect the operator against heat burns.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 98-02-006, § 296-304-03003, filed 12/26/97, effective 3/1/98; Order 74-25, § 296-304-03003, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-03005
Mechanical paint removers.
(1) Power tools.
(a) The employer must ensure that employees engaged in the removal of paints, preservatives, rusts or other coatings by means of power tools are protected against eye injury by goggles or face shields that meets the requirements of WAC 296-304-09005 (1) and (2).
(b) All portable rotating tools used for the removal of paints, preservatives, rusts or other coatings shall be adequately guarded to protect both the operator and nearby workers from flying missiles.
(c) Portable electric tools shall be grounded in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-304-08003 (1) and (2).
(d) In a confined space, the employer must provide mechanical exhaust ventilation sufficient to keep the dust concentration to a minimum, or must protect employees by respiratory protective equipment that meets the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC.
(2) Flame removal.
(a) The employer must ensure that when hardened preservative coatings are removed by flame in enclosed spaces, the employees exposed to fumes are protected by air line respirators that meet the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC. Employees performing this operation in the open air, and those exposed to the resulting fumes, must be protected by a fume filter respirator that meets the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC.
(b) Flame or heat shall not be used to remove soft and greasy preservative coatings.
(3) Abrasive blasting.
(a) Equipment. Hoses and fittings used for abrasive blasting shall meet the following requirements:
(i) Hoses. Hose of a type to prevent shocks from static electricity shall be used.
(ii) Hose couplings. Hose lengths shall be joined by metal couplings secured to the outside of the hose to avoid erosion and weakening of the couplings.
(iii) Nozzles. Nozzles shall be attached to the hose by fittings that will prevent the nozzle from unintentionally becoming disengaged. Nozzle attachments shall be of metal and shall fit onto the hose externally.
(iv) Dead man control. A dead man control device shall be provided at the nozzle end of the blasting hose either to provide direct cutoff or to signal the pot tender by means of a visual and audible signal to cut off the flow, in the event the blaster loses control of the hose. The pot tender shall be available at all times to respond immediately to the signal.
(b) Replacement. Hoses and all fittings used for abrasive blasting shall be inspected frequently to insure timely replacement before an unsafe amount of wear has occurred.
(c) Personal protective equipment.
(i) The employer must ensure that abrasive blasters working in enclosed spaces are protected by abrasive blasting respirators that meet the requirements of chapter 296-818 WAC, Abrasive blasting and chapter 296-842 WAC.
(ii) The employer must ensure that abrasive blasters working in the open are protected as required in subsection (1) of this section.
Exception: When synthetic abrasives containing less than one percent free silica are used, the employer may substitute particulate or dust filter respirators that are approved by the National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH) and used according to chapter 296-842 WAC.
(iii) The employer must ensure that employees, including machine tenders and abrasive recovery workers, working in areas where unsafe concentrations of abrasive materials and dusts are present are protected by eye and respiratory protective equipment that meets the requirements of WAC 296-304-09005 (1) and (2) and chapter 296-842 WAC.
Exception: This requirement does not apply to blasters.
(iv) The employer must ensure that a blaster is protected against injury from exposure to the blast by appropriate protective clothing, including gloves that meet the requirements of WAC 296-304-09015(1).
(v) A surge from a drop in pressure in the hose line can throw a blaster off the staging. To protect against this hazard, the employer must ensure that a blaster is protected by a personal fall arrest system, that meets the requirements of WAC 296-304-09021. The personal fall arrest system must be tied off to the ship or other structure during blasting from elevations where adequate fall protection cannot be provided by railings.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. 06-12-074, § 296-304-03005, filed 6/6/06, effective 9/1/06; 05-03-093, § 296-304-03005, filed 1/18/05, effective 3/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,[49.17].040 and [49.17].050. 99-10-071, § 296-304-03005, filed 5/4/99, effective 9/1/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 98-02-006, § 296-304-03005, filed 12/26/97, effective 3/1/98. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-03005, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), § 296-304-03005, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; Order 76-7, § 296-304-03005, filed 3/1/76; Order 74-25, § 296-304-03005, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-03007
Painting.
All respirators required by this section must meet the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC.
(1) Paints mixed with toxic vehicles or solvents.
(a) When employees spray paints mixed with toxic vehicles or solvents, the employer must ensure that the following conditions are met:
(i) In confined spaces, employees continuously exposed to spraying are protected by air line respirators.
(ii) In tanks or compartments, employees continuously exposed to spraying are protected by air line respirators. Where mechanical ventilation is provided, employees are protected by respirators.
(iii) In large and well ventilated areas, employees exposed to spraying are protected by respirators.
(b) The employer must ensure that where employees apply by brush paints with toxic solvents in confined spaces or other areas where lack of ventilation creates a hazard, the employees are protected by filter respirators.
(c) When flammable paints or vehicles are used, precautions shall be taken in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-304-03009.
(d) The metallic parts of air moving devices, including fans, blowers, and jet-type air movers, and all duct work shall be electrically bonded to the vessel's structure.
(2) Paints and tank coatings dissolved in highly volatile, toxic and flammable solvents. Several organic coatings, adhesives and resins are dissolved in highly toxic, flammable and explosive solvents with flash points below 80°F. Work involving such materials shall be done only when all of the following special precautions have been taken:
(a) Sufficient exhaust ventilation shall be provided to keep the concentration of solvent vapors below ten percent of the lower explosive limit. Frequent tests shall be made by a competent person to ascertain the concentration.
(b) If the ventilation fails or if the concentration of solvent vapors reaches or exceeds ten percent of the lower explosive limit, painting shall be stopped and the compartment shall be evacuated until the concentration again falls below ten percent of the lower explosive limit. If the concentration does not fall when painting is stopped, additional ventilation to bring the concentration down to ten percent of the lower explosive limit shall be provided.
(c) Ventilation shall be continued after the completion of painting until the space or compartment is gas free. The final determination as to whether the space or compartment is gas free shall be made after the ventilating equipment has been shut off for a least ten minutes.
(d) Exhaust ducts shall discharge clear of working areas and away from sources of possible ignition. Periodic tests shall be made to ensure that the exhausted vapors are not accumulating in other areas within or around the vessel or dry dock.
(e) All motors and control equipment shall be of the explosion-proof type. Fans shall have nonferrous blades. Portable air ducts shall also be of nonferrous materials. All motors and associated control equipment shall be properly maintained and grounded.
(f) Only nonsparking paint buckets, spray guns and tools shall be used. Metal parts of paint brushes and rollers shall be insulated. Staging shall be erected in a manner which ensures that it is nonsparking.
(g) Only explosion proof lights, approved by the Underwriters' Laboratories for use in Class I, Group D atmospheres, or approved as permissible by the U.S. Bureau of Mines or the U.S. Coast Guard, shall be used.
(h) A competent person shall inspect all power and lighting cables to ensure that the insulation is in excellent condition, free of all cracks and worn spots, that there are no connections within fifty feet of the operation, that lines are not overloaded, and that they are suspended with sufficient slack to prevent undue stress or chafing.
(i) The face, eyes, head, hands and all other exposed parts of the bodies of employees handling highly volatile paints must be protected according to WAC 296-304-090. All footwear must be nonsparking, such as rubbers, rubber boots or rubber soled shoes without nails. Coveralls or other outer clothing must be made of cotton. Rubber gloves, instead of plastic gloves, must be used to protect against the danger of static sparks.
(j) No matches, lighted cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, and no cigarette lighters or ferrous articles shall be taken into the area where work is being done.
(k) All solvent drums taken into the compartment shall be placed on nonferrous surfaces and shall be grounded to the vessel. Metallic contact shall be maintained between containers and drums when materials are being transferred from one to another.
(l) Spray guns, paint pots, and metallic parts of connecting tubing shall be electrically bonded, and the bonded assembly shall be grounded to the vessel.
(m) The employer must ensure that all employees continuously in a compartment in which such painting is performed, are protected by air line respirators and by suitable protective clothing. Employees entering such compartments for a limited time must be protected by filter cartridge type respirators.
(n) The employer must ensure that all employees doing exterior paint spraying with such paints are protected by suitable filter cartridge type respirators and by suitable protective clothing.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. 05-03-093, § 296-304-03007, filed 1/18/05, effective 3/1/05; 03-04-099, § 296-304-03007, filed 2/4/03, effective 8/1/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040,[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 98-02-006, § 296-304-03007, filed 12/26/97, effective 3/1/98. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-03007, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), § 296-304-03007, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; Order 76-7, § 296-304-03007, filed 3/1/76; Order 74-25, § 296-304-03007, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-03009
Flammable liquids.
(1) In all cases when liquid solvents, paint and preservative removers, paints or vehicles, other than those covered by WAC 296-304-03007(2), are capable of producing a flammable atmosphere under the conditions of use the following precautions shall be taken:
(a) Smoking, open flames, arcs and spark-producing equipment shall be prohibited in the area.
(b) Ventilation shall be provided in sufficient quantities to keep the concentration of vapors below ten percent of their lower explosive limit. Frequent tests shall be made by a competent person to ascertain the concentration.
(c) Scrapings and rags soaked with these materials shall be kept in a covered metal container.
(d) Only explosion proof lights, approved by the Underwriters' Laboratories for use in Class I, Group D atmospheres, or approved as permissible by the U.S. Bureau of Mines or the U.S. Coast Guard, shall be used.
(e) A competent person shall inspect all power and lighting cables to ensure that the insulation is in excellent condition, free of all cracks and worn spots, that there are no connections within fifty feet of the operation, that lines are not overloaded, and that they are suspended with sufficient slack to prevent undue stress or chafing.
(f) Suitable fire extinguishing equipment shall be immediately available in the work area and shall be maintained in a state of readiness for instant use.
[Order 74-25, § 296-304-03009, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-040
Welding, cutting and heating — Scope and application.
All sections of this chapter which include WAC 296-304-040 in the section number apply to welding, cutting and heating.
You are also required to protect employees from exposure to hexavalent chromium during the stainless steel welding process. See WAC 296-62-08003, Hexavalent chromium for specific criteria.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. 06-16-106, § 296-304-040, filed 8/1/06, effective 9/1/06; Order 74-25, § 296-304-040, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-04001
Ventilation and protection in welding, cutting and heating.
(1) Mechanical ventilation requirements.
(a) For the purposes of this section, mechanical ventilation shall meet the following requirements:
(i) Mechanical ventilation shall consist of either general mechanical ventilation systems or local exhaust systems.
(ii) General mechanical ventilation shall be of sufficient capacity and so arranged as to produce the number of air changes necessary to maintain welding fumes and smoke within safe limits.
(iii) Local exhaust ventilation shall consist of freely movable hoods intended to be placed by the welder or burner as close as practicable to the work. This system shall be of sufficient capacity and so arranged as to remove fumes and smoke at the source and keep the concentration of them in the breathing zone within safe limits.
(iv) Contaminated air exhausted from a working space shall be discharged into the open air or otherwise clear of the source of intake air.
(v) All air replacing that withdrawn shall be clean and respirable.
(vi) Oxygen shall not be used for ventilation purposes, comfort cooling, blowing dust or dirt from clothing, or for cleaning the work area.
(2) Welding, cutting and heating in confined spaces.
(a) Except as provided in WAC 296-304-04001 (2)(c) and (3)(b), either general mechanical or local exhaust ventilation meeting the requirements of (1) of this section shall be provided whenever welding, cutting or heating is performed in a confined space.
(b) The means of access shall be provided to a confined space and ventilation ducts to this space shall be arranged in accordance with WAC 296-304-05011 (2)(a) and (b).
(c) When sufficient ventilation cannot be obtained without blocking the means of access, employees in the confined space shall be protected by air line respirators in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC, and an employee on the outside of such a confined space shall be assigned to maintain communication with those working within it and to aid them in an emergency.
(3) Welding, cutting or heating of metals of toxic significance.
(a) Welding, cutting or heating in any enclosed spaces aboard the vessel involving the metals specified in this subsection shall be performed with either general mechanical or local exhaust ventilation meeting the requirements of (1) of this section.
(i) Zinc-bearing base or filler metals or metals coated with zinc-bearing materials.
(ii) Lead base metals.
(iii) Cadmium-bearing filler materials.
(iv) Chromium-bearing metals or metals coated with chromium-bearing materials.
(b) Welding, cutting, or heating in any enclosed spaces aboard the vessel involving the metals specified in this subsection shall be performed with local exhaust ventilation in accordance with the requirements of (1) of this section or employees shall be protected by air line respirators in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC.
(i) Metals containing lead, other than as an impurity, or metals coated with lead-bearing materials.
(ii) Cadmium-bearing or cadmium coated base metals.
(iii) Metals coated with mercury-bearing metals.
(iv) Beryllium-containing base or filler metals. Because of its high toxicity, work involving beryllium shall be done with both local exhaust ventilation and air line respirators.
(c) Employees performing such operations in the open air shall be protected by filter type respirators in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-304-09003, except that employees performing such operations on beryllium-containing base or filler metals shall be protected by air line respirators in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC.
(d) Other employees exposed to the same atmosphere as the welders or burners shall be protected in the same manner as the welder or burner.
(4) Inert-gas metal-arc welding.
(a) Since the inert-gas metal-arc welding process involves the production of ultraviolet radiation of intensities of 5 to 30 times that produced during shielded metal-arc welding, the decomposition of chlorinated solvents by ultraviolet rays, and the liberation of toxic fumes and gases, employees shall not be permitted to engage in, or be exposed to the process until the following special precautions have been taken:
(i) The use of chlorinated solvents shall be kept at least two hundred feet from the exposed arc, and surfaces prepared with chlorinated solvents shall be thoroughly dry before welding is permitted on such surfaces.
(ii) Helpers and other employees in the area not protected from the arc by screening as provided in WAC 206-304-04011(5) shall be protected by filter lenses meeting the requirements of Tables I-1A and B (see below). When two or more welders are exposed to each other's arc, filter lens goggles of a suitable type meeting the requirements of WAC 296-304-09001 (1) and (3) shall be worn under welding helmets or hand shields to protect the welder against flashes and radiant energy when either the helmet is lifted or the shield is removed.
(iii) Welders and other employees who are exposed to radiation shall be suitably protected so that the skin is covered completely to prevent burns and other damage by ultraviolet rays. Welding helmets and hand shields shall be free of leaks and openings, and free of highly reflective surfaces.
(iv) When inert-gas metal-arc welding is being performed on stainless steel, the requirements of (3)(b) of this section shall be met to protect against dangerous concentrations of nitrogen dioxide.
(5) General welding, cutting and heating.
(a) Welding, cutting and heating not involving conditions or materials described in (2), (3) or (4) of this section may normally be done without mechanical ventilation or respiratory protective equipment, but where, because of unusual physical or atmospheric conditions, an unsafe accumulation of contaminants exists, suitable mechanical ventilation or respiratory protective equipment shall be provided.
(b) Employees performing any type of welding, cutting or heating shall be protected by suitable eye protective equipment in accordance with the requirements of Tables I-1A and B (see below).
(6) Residues and cargos of metallic ores.
Residues and cargos of metallic ores of toxic significance shall be removed from the area or protected from the heat before welding, cutting or heating is begun.
TABLE I-1A
FILTER LENSES FOR PROTECTION AGAINST
RADIANT ENERGY
OPERATIONS ELECTRODE
SIZE 1/32 IN ARC
CURRENT MINIMUM
PROTECTIVE
SHADE
Shielded metal arc welding Less than 3
3-5
5-8
More than 8 Less than 60
60-160
160-250
250-550 7
8
10
11
Gas metal arc welding and flux cored arc welding Less than 60
60-160
160-250
250-550 7
10
10
10
Gas Tungsten arc welding Less than 50
50-150
150-500 8
8
10
Air carbon arc cutting (Light)
(Heavy) Less than 500
500-1000 10
11
Plasma arc welding Less than 20
20-100
100-400
400-800 6
8
10
11
Plasma arc cutting (Light)**
(Medium)**
(Heavy)** Less than 300
300-400
400-800 8
9
10
Torch brazing -- -- 3
Torch soldering -- -- 2
Carbon Arc welding -- -- 14
** These values apply where the actual arc is clearly seen. Lighter filters may be used when the arc is hidden by the workplace.
TABLE I-1B
FILTER LENSES FOR PROTECTION AGAINST
RADIANT ENERGY
OPERATIONS PLATE
THICKNESS...
INCHES PLATE
THICKNESS...
MM MINIMUM*
PROTECTIVE
SHADE
Gas welding
Light
Medium
Heavy Under 1/8
1/8 - 1/2
Over 1/2 Under 3.2
3.2 - 12.7
Over 12.7 4
5
6
Oxygen cutting
Light
Medium
Heavy Under 1
1 - 6
Over 6 Under 25
25 - 100
Over 150 3
4
5
* As rule of thumb, start with a shade that is too dark to see the weld zone. Then go to a lighter shade which gives sufficient view of the weld zone without going below the minimum. In oxyfuel gas welding or cutting where the torch produces a high yellow light, it is desirable to use a filter lens that absorbs the yellow or sodium line in the viable light of the (spectrum) operation.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. 05-03-093, § 296-304-04001, filed 1/18/05, effective 3/1/05; 03-04-099, § 296-304-04001, filed 2/4/03, effective 8/1/03. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-04001, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), § 296-304-04001, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; Order 74-25, § 296-304-04001, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-04005
Welding, cutting and heating in way of preservative coatings.
(1) Before welding, cutting or heating is commenced on any surface covered by a preservative coating whose flammability is not known, a test shall be made by a competent person to determine its flammability. Preservative coatings shall be considered to be highly flammable when scrapings burn with extreme rapidity.
(2) Precautions shall be taken to prevent ignition of highly flammable hardened preservative coatings. When coatings are determined to be highly flammable they shall be stripped from the area to be heated to prevent ignition. A 1 1/2-inch or larger fire hose with fog nozzle, which has been uncoiled and placed under pressure, shall be immediately available for instant use in the immediate vicinity, consistent with avoiding freezing of the hose.
(3) Protection against toxic preservative coatings.
(a) In enclosed spaces all surfaces covered with toxic preservatives shall be stripped of all toxic coatings for a distance of at least 4 inches from the area of heat application or the employees shall be protected by air line respirators meeting the requirements of chapter 296-62 WAC, Part E.
(b) In the open air employees shall be protected by a filter type respirator in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-62 WAC, Part E.
(4) Before welding, cutting or heating is commenced in enclosed spaces on metals covered by soft and greasy preservatives, the following precautions shall be taken:
(a) A competent person shall test the atmosphere in the space to ensure that it does not contain explosive vapors, since there is a possibility that some soft and greasy preservatives may have flash points below temperatures which may be expected to occur naturally. If such vapors are determined to be present, no hot work shall be commenced until such precautions have been taken as will ensure that the welding, cutting or heating can be performed in safety.
(b) The preservative coatings shall be removed for a sufficient distance from the area to be heated to ensure that the temperature of the unstripped metal will not be appreciably raised. Artificial cooling of the metal surrounding the heated area may be used to limit the size of the area required to be cleaned. The prohibition contained in WAC 296-304-03005 (2)(b) shall apply.
(5) Immediately after welding, cutting or heating is commenced in enclosed spaces on metal covered by soft and greasy preservatives, and at frequent intervals thereafter, a competent person shall make tests to ensure that no flammable vapors are being produced by the coatings. If such vapors are determined to be present, the operation shall be stopped immediately and shall not be resumed until such additional precautions have been taken as are necessary to ensure that the operation can be resumed safely.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-04005, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), § 296-304-04005, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; Order 74-25, § 296-304-04005, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-04007
Welding, cutting and heating of hollow metal containers and structures not covered by WAC 296-304-02003.
(1) Drums, containers, or hollow structures which have contained toxic or flammable substances shall, before welding, cutting, or heating is undertaken on them, either be filled with water or thoroughly cleaned of such substances and ventilated and tested.
(2) Before heat is applied to a drum, container, or hollow structure, a vent or opening shall be provided for the release of any built-up pressure during the application of heat.
(3) Before welding, cutting, heating or brazing is begun on structural voids such as skegs, bilge keels, fair waters, masts, booms, support stanchions, pipe stanchions or railings, a competent person shall inspect the object and, if necessary, test it for the presence of flammable liquids or vapors. If flammable liquids or vapors are present, the object shall be made safe.
(4) Objects such as those listed in (3) of this section shall also be inspected to determine whether water or other nonflammable liquids are present which, when heated, would build up excessive pressure. If such liquids are determined to be present, the object shall be vented, cooled, or otherwise made safe during the application of heat.
(5) Jacketed vessels shall be vented before and during welding, cutting or heating operations in order to release any pressure which may build up during the application of heat.
[Order 76-7, § 296-304-04007, filed 3/1/76; Order 74-25, § 296-304-04007, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-04009
Gas welding and cutting.
(1) Transporting, moving and storing compressed gas cylinders.
(a) Valve protection caps shall be in place and secure. Oil shall not be used to lubricate protection caps.
(b) When cylinders are hoisted, they shall be secured on a cradle, slingboard or pallet. They shall not be hoisted by means of magnets or choker slings.
(c) Cylinders shall be moved by tilting and rolling them on their bottom edges. They shall not be intentionally dropped, struck, or permitted to strike each other violently.
(d) When cylinders are transported by vehicle, they shall be secured in position.
(e) Valve protection caps shall not be used for lifting cylinders from one vertical position to another. Bars shall not be used under valves or valve protection caps to pry cylinders loose when frozen. Warm, not boiling, water shall be used to thaw cylinders loose.
(f) Unless cylinders are firmly secured on a special carrier intended for this purpose, regulators shall be removed and valve protection caps put in place before cylinders are moved.
(g) A suitable cylinder truck, chain, or other steadying device shall be used to keep cylinders from being knocked over while in use.
(h) When work is finished, when cylinders are empty or when cylinders are moved at any time, the cylinder valves shall be closed.
(i) Acetylene cylinders shall be secured in an upright position at all times except, if necessary, for short periods of time while cylinders are actually being hoisted or carried.
(2) Placing cylinders.
(a) Cylinders shall be kept far enough away from the actual welding or cutting operation so that sparks, hot slag or flame will not reach them. When this is impractical, fire resistant shields shall be provided.
(b) Cylinders shall be placed where they cannot become part of an electrical circuit. Electrodes shall not be struck against a cylinder to strike an arc.
(c) Fuel gas cylinders shall be placed with valve end up whenever they are in use. They shall not be placed in a location where they would be subject to open flame, hot metal, or other sources of artificial heat.
(d) Cylinders containing oxygen or acetylene or other fuel gas shall not be taken into confined spaces.
(3) Treatment of cylinders.
(a) Cylinders, whether full or empty, shall not be used as rollers or supports.
(b) No person other than the gas supplier shall attempt to mix gases in a cylinder. No one except the owner of the cylinder or person authorized by him shall refill a cylinder. No one shall use a cylinder's contents for purposes other than those intended by the supplier. Only cylinders bearing Interstate Commerce Commission identification and inspection markings shall be used.
(c) No damaged or defective cylinder shall be used.
(4) Use of fuel gas. The employer shall thoroughly instruct employees in the safe use of fuel gas, as follows:
(a) Before connecting a regulator to a cylinder valve, the valve shall be opened slightly and closed immediately. (This action is generally termed "cracking" and is intended to clear the valve of dust or dirt that might otherwise enter the regulator.) The person cracking the valve shall stand to one side of the outlet, not in front of it. The valve of a fuel gas cylinder shall not be cracked where the gas would reach welding work, sparks, flame or other possible sources of ignition.
(b) The cylinder valve shall always be opened slowly to prevent damage to the regulator. To permit quick closing, valves on fuel gas cylinders shall not be opened more than 1 1/2 turns. When a special wrench is required, it shall be left in position on the stem of the valve while the cylinder is in use so that the fuel gas flow can be shut off quickly in case of emergency. In the case of a manifolded or coupled cylinders, at least one such wrench shall always be available for immediate use. Nothing shall be placed on top of a fuel gas cylinder, when in use, which may damage the safety device or interfere with the quick closing of the valve.
(c) Fuel gas shall not be used from cylinders through torches or other devices which are equipped with shut-off valves without reducing the pressure through a suitable regulator attached to the cylinder valve or manifold.
(d) Before a regulator is removed from a cylinder valve, the cylinder valve shall always be closed and the gas released from the regulator.
(e) If, when the valve on a fuel gas cylinder is opened, there is found to be a leak around the valve stem, the valve shall be closed and the gland nut tightened. If this action does not stop the leak, the use of the cylinder shall be discontinued, and it shall be properly tagged and removed from the vessel. In the event that fuel gas should leak from the cylinder valve rather than from the valve stem and the gas cannot be shut off, the cylinder shall be properly tagged and removed from the vessel. If a regulator attached to a cylinder valve will effectively stop a leak through the valve seat the cylinder need not be removed from the vessel.
(f) If a leak should develop at a fuse plug or other safety device, the cylinder shall be removed from the vessel.
(5) Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds.
(a) Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds shall bear the name of the substance they contain in letters at least one (1) inch high which shall be either painted on the manifold or on a sign permanently attached to it.
(b) Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds shall be placed in safe and accessible locations in the open air. They shall not be located within enclosed spaces.
(c) Manifold hose connections, including both ends of the supply hose that lead to the manifold, shall be such that the hose cannot be interchanged between fuel gas and oxygen manifolds and supply header connections. Adapters shall not be used to permit the interchange of hose. Hose connections shall be kept free of grease and oil.
(d) When not in use, manifold and header hose connections shall be capped.
(e) Nothing shall be placed on top of a manifold, when in use, which will damage the manifold or interfere with the quick closing of the valves.
(6) Hose.
(a) Fuel gas hose and oxygen hose shall be easily distinguishable from each other. The contrast may be made by different colors or by surface characteristics readily distinguishable by the sense of touch. Oxygen and fuel gas hoses shall not be interchangeable. A single hose having more than one gas passage, a wall failure of which would permit the flow of one gas into the other gas passage, shall not be used.
(b) When parallel sections of oxygen and fuel gas hose are taped together, not more than 4 inches out of 8 inches shall be covered by tape.
(c) All hose carrying acetylene, oxygen, natural or manufactured fuel gas, or any gas or substance which may ignite or enter into combustion or be in any way harmful to employees, shall be inspected at the beginning of each shift. Defective hose shall be removed from service.
(d) Hose which has been subjected to flashback or which shows evidence of severe wear or damage shall be tested to twice the normal pressure to which it is subject, but in no case less than two hundred psi. Defective hose or hose in doubtful condition shall not be used.
(e) Hose couplings shall be of the type that cannot be unlocked or disconnected by means of a straight pull without rotary motion.
(f) Boxes used for the stowage of gas hose shall be ventilated.
(7) Torches.
(a) Clogged torch tip openings shall be cleaned with suitable cleaning wires, drills or other devices designed for such purpose.
(b) Torches shall be inspected at the beginning of each shift for leaking shut-off valves, hose couplings, and tip connections. Defective torches shall not be used.
(c) Torches shall be lighted by friction lighters or other approved devices, and not by matches or from hot work.
(8) Pressure regulators. Oxygen and fuel gas pressure regulators including their related gauges shall be in proper working order while in use.
[Order 74-25, § 296-304-04009, filed 5/7/74.]
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296-304-04011
Arc welding and cutting.
(1) Manual electrode holders.
(a) Only manual electrode holders which are specifically designed for arc welding and cutting and are of a capacity capable of safely handling the maximum rated current required by the electrodes shall be used.
(b) Any current carrying parts passing through the portion of the holder which the arc welder or cutter grips in his hand, and the outer surfaces of the jaws of the holder, shall be fully insulated against the maximum voltage encountered to ground.
(2) Welding cables and connectors.
(a) All arc welding and cutting cables shall be of the completely insulated, flexible type, capable of handling the maximum current requirements of the work in progress, taking into account the duty cycle under which the arc welder or cutter is working.
(b) Only cable free from repair or splices for a minimum distance of ten feet from the cable end to which the electrode holder is connected shall be used, except that cables with standard insulated connectors or with splices whose insulating quality is equal to that of the cable are permitted.
(c) When it becomes necessary to connect or splice lengths of cable one to another, substantial insulated connectors of a capacity at least equivalent to that of the cable shall be used. If connections are effected by means of cable lugs, they shall be securely fastened together to give good electrical contact, and the exposed metal parts of the lugs shall be completely insulated. (continued)