Overtime, accidents, and injuries due to industrial boilers have increased due to mishandling and negligence by either the operator or the company itself and have contributed over twenty-thousand or more accidents for the longest time. Handlers often overlook these pressurized machines, and it causes damage on a larger scale; whether privately-owned or rental boiler, the damage is similarly massive if not appropriately handled.
Human error is commonly blamed as the leading cause of most significant accidents. That is why every corporation or operator planning to use a boiler should consider following the guidelines below for boiler management with regards to workforce safety and security.
One root of the cause for boiler-related accidents is overlooking the precautions and safety procedures inside every manual. Trained operators know how to follow the recommendations set by the manual, especially in pressure settings.
Whether the first time or with experience, you should handle boilers by following the recommended limits and check all valves and plugs before starting operation.
Boilers are unsafe for the public; that is why workers are needed to be equipped with proper clothing when entering and exiting the boiler room. Protective equipment means getting hard hats, gloves, goggles, and industrial-grade shoes as well as insulated covers and shields when operating.
Additionally, balmy surfaces are prominent in boiler rooms, that is why aside from the clothing protection, proper insulation must take place even non-heated spots may seem too warm for handlers. Employees entering the boiler room must be well trained and oriented about these conditions, only enter when the adequate cool-off time has been observed, and all safety precautions observed.
Even with the guidance of the safety manual, boiler operators are highly encouraged to take a training course on boiler operation. Boilers deal with flammable fuels, which could be extremely dangerous if not handled properly.
A well-trained operator with a full understanding of pipe connections and boiler management is recommended to operate any boiler type. As already mentioned, all well-trained and experienced operators know better to follow safety procedures, wear protective clothing than to work haphazardly.
Boiler rooms are not fitted for public interaction; even operators are at risk no matter how sturdy and well-maintained a boiler is. Safety and security precautions must be implemented to lessen the risk of boiler-related accidents by placing hazard signs.
Placing hazard signs such as fire or warning hazard is easy but detrimental to the overall safety of workers, try to put them near the entrances of boiler rooms and spaces where heat spots are created.
Additionally, placing electrical hazards near control boxes or fuses avoids operators from interacting parts that they are not specialized for, only qualified electricians and specialists should interact with elements under their field.
All boilers contain essential parts that keep the operation going smooth. Lost, broken values, and levers would always lead to leakages and accidents later on. If possible, fix and replace these parts once damaged, there is no need to keep a defective part in function anymore.
Aside from that, occasional leaks occur between the pipes of every boiler, make sure holes are taken care off by doing regular check-ups as well as maintaining pressure from time to time. Another thing to take care of is boiler vents, aside from calibrating the pressure regularly, try to look for obstructed materials like cloth and residue to ensure all parts would run smoothly.
Although it has been stated that human error is a significant cause of boiler-related accidents, we must be specific and look for other factors before buying boilers. Learning the common causes avoids mishandling and increases overall safety.
Here are some simple precautions.
Because they are cost-effective, most companies would settle for rental boiler machines. When that happens, familiarize yourself with the red flags or hazards of inspecting a boiler. Try to check previous logs if possible with regards to its pressure, water levels, pump operations, and temperature.
Do not ignore dents and history of issues from that specific boiler; try to consult with an expert regarding the status of the boiler and see if it is suitable for the company.
Boilers deal with extreme temperatures and high pressure. Shutting them down is not as simple as pushing a lever. Boilers need to be cooled down properly and initiate drainage of fluids to prevent leaks and combustion. Make sure the machine is depressurized, and every pipe is free of air, water, or fuel before leaving the room.
Taking steps in the safety and security of these machines affects overall performance. Attention to detail and hiring qualified personnel not only makes the whole operation smoother, but it also brings efficiency and overall safety towards the operators and the people around the vicinity. Don’t handle boilers with instinct and trust alone. Bring a manual and have in-depth knowledge about boiler maintenance before operating them.