Oxy-Acetylene Equipment
Obviously the pressurised gases represent a significant risk, therefore a Risk Assessment and Safe System of Work would be appropriate. As a preventive measure, it may be appropriate to use the ‘porta-pack’ size cylinders which present a reduced manual handling risk and reduced fuel volume in case of accidental fire. Ensure that flashback arrestors are fitted in both supply lines. The equipment falls under ‘Work Equipment’ (PUWER) regulations and should therefore; only be used by trained persons, be inspected before use, have a system of maintenance applied e.g. thorough inspection by a competent person. Common faults include; failing to turn off bottles (often due to lost keys), gauges & regulators damaged, hoses damaged due to sparks/slag burns, hoses damaged at torch due to constant flexing. There is specific guidance on the BOC website