Originally published in V102, Number 4 of the National Engineer
By Mark Crisco | Member of Piedmont, NC Chapter#1, June 1998
If neglected in condition or operation, a large industrial water tube boiler is potentially the single most dangerous piece of equipment a company could possess. However, properly maintained and operated, these boilers are in some ways, no more or less dangerous than many other types of industrial equipment. The key word here is “properly”. If boiler conditions, both operational and material, are not properly maintained, the then potential for a catastrophic accident greatly increases, endangering all who are unfortunate enough to be near the plant.
Those of us who have seen furnace explosions, flare backs, oil and electrical fires, and large high-pressure steam leaks, are well-educated and respectful of safe operational procedures. Sometimes in the past, we may have become somewhat “stale” in our duties to routine; and between long running times when no major problems appear on the horizon.
Because of this, we should show resolve and be vigilant in our responsibility to preform our jobs at a higher safer level; to benefit our co-workers, our plants and our companies. There are a thousand or more hazardous situations that could develop in a steam or power plant. Plant personnel are expected to respond swiftly, correctly, and safely to all these various abnormal conditions.
Clear communications among plant personnel are essential to determine what is or isn’t a safe action or safe condition. Communication is a major key in maintaining plant safety at all times.
Teamwork is another major ley in this area and is necessary to bring everything together.
No organization has reached the point yet where improvements can’t be made upon either of these two elements.
Improving can be an on-going process, not only in improving plant equipment conditions, but also to personnel improving professionally. To help prevent casualty and/or accident scenarios from occurring, and to maintain a high state of plant operational readiness, our keys need to be utilized. They are Communication and Teamwork.
What is the result of turning these keys? Smooth, efficient, and safe plant operations. And safety here is first, never last. For you cannot put a price tag on safety. Safety takes a back seat to nothing or no one. If it is not this way, then from my viewpoint—we are al l just one roll of a dice away from disaster!
Want to learn more?
N.A.P.E.’s Safety Course covers various of important OSHA regulations. Make sure that your team understands the importance of work-place safety so that your facility runs smoothly and efficiently.