Duer/Carolina Coil Inc. Work Instructions W20810.Cutting Torch Operations

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Purpose: Describe how to safely operate cutting torches and heating tips.

Scope: Applies to production and maintenance operations of cutting torches and heating tips.

Remarks: Follow the following minimum safety guidelines when using cutting torches and heating tips:

1. Hoses must be free of abrasions, burns and cuts.

2. The area where the cutting, burning or heating will take place must be free of flammable materials which could accidentally catch fire.

3. A fire extinguisher must be available for immediate use.

4. The operator must wear personal protective equipment including gloves and safety glasses.

5. When opening valves on the tanks, stand to the side of the tank opposite the regulators.  Do not stand in front of or behind regulators.

6. The oxygen setting should be set at the recommended pressure. 

7. The acetylene setting should be set at the recommended pressure.

8. Always ignite the gas (acetylene) first and adjust the oxygen as it is introduced.

9. Always shut off the oxygen first when shutting down the torches.

Definitions: None.

Responsibilities:

1. Each torch operator must see the training video “Oxyfuel Safety – It’s Not An Option” prior to operating any torch for any reason.

2. Each torch operator must be supervised and trained by a maintenance technician prior to operating any torch independently.

3. Each maintenance technician must be able to train operators to safely operate torches.

Tasks:

1.      Setup:

1. Check equipment.  Hoses must be free of abrasions, burns and cuts.

2. The area where the cutting, burning or heating will take place must be free of flammable materials which could accidentally catch fire.

3. A fire extinguisher must be available for immediate use.

4. The operator must wear personal protective equipment including gloves and safety glasses.

5. If removing the protective cover from the top of the tank, use a pipe wrench.  Do not put a bar in the hole as this may accidentally open the valve and release the gas.

2.      Light the torch. 

1.      While standing on the side of the tanks away from the regulator, open the oxygen tank valve completely and open the gas (acetylene) valve one full turn. 

2.      Adjust the oxygen and gas pressure. 

3.      Ignite the gas.  Open the oxygen valve at the torch and adjust for optimum flame. 

3.      Shut down and storage:

1. Always remove the presence of oxygen first when shutting down torches.

2. Shut valves on top of tanks.

3. Wrap up hoses neatly.

4. Store tanks in designates storage area.  Storage areas must be out of normal traffic flows. 

Related Documents:

1.      Training Video: “Oxyfuel Safety – It’s Not An Option”