N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. Tit. 12 §§ 23-1.25

Current through Register Vol. 46, No. 45, November 2, 2024

Section 23-1.25 - Welding and flame cutting operations

(a) Compressed gas cylinders.

(1) Cylinder storage. Compressed gas cylinders not in use shall be stored in an upright position remote from open flames, radiators and other sources of heat, buildings or other structures and from any combustible material and shall be protected from the sun and high temperatures or fire-resistant shields shall be provided. Such cylinders shall be so arranged or placed that they will not be knocked over or damaged by passing or falling objects, equipment or materials. Cylinders containing oxygen shall not be stored near cylinders containing combustible gas, combustible material, oil or grease or in other areas where a spontaneous combustion hazard exists. Cylinder valves shall be closed at all times when not in use.

(2) Control valves and regulators.

(i) The control valve of any compressed gas cylinder shall be located at the domed end of such cylinder and when not in use such control valve shall be protected by a suitable cap or ring guard. A key or wrench shall be maintained on the spindle of every compressed gas cylinder at all times during use.

(ii) Each compressed gas cylinder in use shall be provided with a pressure regulator or an automatic pressure reducing device.

(3) Use.

(i) Compressed gas cylinders shall be raised or lowered only in suitable cradles. The use of ordinary slings for such purpose is prohibited.

(ii) Compressed gas cylinders shall not be dropped or thrown from any height.

(iii) Compressed gas cylinders shall be placed in an upright position when in use.

(iv) During use each compressed gas cylinder shall be securely fastened to a stationary object unless other suitable provision has been made to keep it from falling over.

(v) During use a compressed gas cylinder shall be located at least six feet from any combustible material or from any heating device.

(vi) Empty compressed gas cylinders shall be immediately removed from working areas and stored in designated safe locations. The valves of such cylinders shall be closed and tags or signs indicating that such cylinders are empty shall be attached thereto. The use of compressed gas cylinders as rollers, props or supports is prohibited.

(b) Hose and hose connections.

(1) All hose shall be first quality and of a type manufactured for use on construction or demolition job sites. Hose used for oxygen cylinder connections shall have fittings of a different design that hose used for compressed gas connections. Hose connections shall be of either the ferrule or clamp type. Hose shall be capable of withstanding, without leakage, a pressure equal to at least twice the maximum delivery pressure of the pressure regulators provided for the system but not less than 300 pounds per square inch gage.

(2) Hose shall be protected from damage by trucks or other moving construction or demolition equipment. Hose shall be so placed when in use as not to constitute a falling or tripping hazard. All hose shall be carefully examined at frequent intervals for leaks or for signs of excessive wear, damage from abrasion or any other deterioration. Defective hose or hose connections shall be immediately repaired or removed from the job site.

(c) Torches.

(1) Torches shall be lighted only by means of friction lighters or self-contained electric spark igniters.

(2) When torches are changed or when welding is halted for more than five minutes, all cylinder valves shall be closed.

(3) Momentary stoppages may be controlled at the torch valves.

(d) Protection of persons. All persons engaged in welding or flame-cutting operations shall be provided where necessary with proper scaffolds installed and used in compliance with this Part (rule). Such persons shall be provided with approved eye protection suitable for the work involved and appropriate protective apparel. When arc welding is performed near other persons, such other persons shall be protected from the arc rays by opaque screens or by approved eye protection.

(e) Fire protection.

(1) Oily and greasy substances shall be kept away from the areas where cylinders, hose and torches are being used. Cylinder valves and connections shall not be lubricated.

(2) Where there is a hazard to other persons from flying particles of metal there shall be provided suitable incombustible screening installed between the welding or flame-cutting operations and such other persons.

(3) Whenever welding or flame-cutting operations are performed in the vicinity of any combustible material there shall be provided, within easy reach of the persons performing such work, at least one approved fire extinguisher or fire pail filled with an appropriate fire extinguishing agent.

(f) Explosion hazard. Before any welding or flame cutting is done on any tank or container that contained any materials which may generate a flammable vapor upon the application of heat, all piping connected to such tank or container shall be disconnected or blanked off. Any residual flammable material shall be removed and the tank or container shall be completely purged with a suitable purging agent.

N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. Tit. 12 §§ 23-1.25