SAFEWORK SA has released a safety alert on hot work, after oxyacetylene cutting equipment caused a fire at a screening plant.
Workers were using oxyacetylene cutting equipment on the top deck of a screening plant. A small piece of hot material dropped into a chute, and came into contact with the Linatex chute lining, starting a fire.
The fire took hold engulfed the entire area in flames within 10 minutes.
According to SafeWork SA, welding and cutting metals with oxyacetylene equipment are classified as ‘hot work’.
When conducting hot work in the vicinity of combustible materials, workers should ensure safe systems of work are developed to control risks, evaluate current operations to ensure appropriate levels of controls are in place, and remove or protect combustibles whenever possible.
Workers should also engage spotters, who should be clear on their duties and the action to be taken if hot material escapes the controlled working area. There should also be appropriate fire protection equipment provided at the site.
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