Posted by Balut on August 14, 2001 at 20:17:42:
In Reply to: A report from the other end of the steam line. posted by MikeH on August 09, 2001 at 19:30:31:
There is an OSHA standard (29 CFR 1910) that addresses working in confined spaces ( steam tunnels / manholes fall into this catagory)These spaces should be designated as PERMIT REQUIRED.
Working in these spaces without the proper safety precautions / gear is a disaster waiting to happen.Of particular concern is working on a live steam line without two valve protection or blocking and bleeding of pressure.The same rules apply when working inside of a boiler.For more info and examples of a confined space program see this link.
http://www.osha-slc.gov/SLTC/confinedspaces/index.html
(click on evaluation)
Since you work at a Federal Installation (Air Force Base)I'm certain they have this safety policy. If it is not being utilized as a matter of routine (enforced)I would want to know why. The bottom line is "It is your life and your workmates"
Just my 2 pisos