GULF SOUTH SAFETY ALERT! 50
What Safe Welding, Cutting, and Grinding Practices
Where All Job Sites
When While performing Hot Work or Fire Watch
Hot work is a common practice in the oil and gas industry and is also a major component of Gulf South Service’s business. Hot work can create many hazards which can result in severe consequences if they are not properly controlled. Hot work must always be performed safely and it is our obligation to use our Stop Work Authority if we observe hot work being performed in an unsafe manner. To ensure safety when performing hot work the following safe work practices must be followed:
- Permit/Fire Watch- Hot work must not be performed unless a hot work permit has been issued, the area is free of combustible materials and the atmosphere has been monitored, and a fire watch is on duty. The fire watch must remain on duty for at least 30 minutes after hot work has been completed.
- Proper Ventilation- Proper ventilation must be established to prevent exposure to welding fumes; this is especially true in confined spaces.
- Electrical Hazards- Inspect all electrical components and replace any equipment with damaged insulation, exposed wiring, or missing safety guards. Do not use electrical equipment in wet environments.
- Equipment- All equipment must be inspected prior to use and any damaged equipment must be taken out of service. Hoses and cylinders must be free of leaks and welding leads must not have damaged insulation. When running leads and hoses run them in locations that are not heavily trafficked and in a manner that does not create a tripping hazard. Equipment must be disconnected and stored properly when not in use.
- Cylinders- Cylinders in storage must have the valve caps in place, be secured from movement, and fuel/oxygen cylinders must be stored 20 ft. apart unless in use. Cylinders should be kept upright at all times, should only be lifted in approved racks, and must be transported with the valve cap in place.
- Proper PPE- Proper PPE includes hard hat, steel toed boots, FRCs, safety glasses, welding hood with appropriate lens, and leather welding gloves. If necessary respiratory protection may be needed.
For questions or concerns, please contact Chris Detillier at 985-354-4043 or chris@gssimail.net.