Do you know if your safety Valves are safe?

Do you know if your safety Valves are safe?

The important way to prevention and release of hazardous energy during service or maintenance activity is by using an energy-isolating device which is manually operated to lockout energy storing devices such as Valves.

Lockout requires the use of a lock or other lockout device to hold the energy-isolating device in a safe position to prevent machinery from becoming reenergized. The lockout also requires employees to follow an established procedure to ensure that all machinery will not be re-energized until the same employee who placed the lockout device on the energy-isolating device removes it.

Valve lockout devices:

A wide variety of valves supply liquids, compressed gases, steam, and more in an operating facility. A valve lockout device will conceal or physically prevent the valve’s operation temporarily or for a prolonged duration. The four main types of Valves commonly user are Gate valves, Ball valves, Plug valves, and Butterfly valves.

Two Types of Locking:

If the valve is being guarded against inadvertent operation for example a sprinkler system, or a far more critical process event like the isolation of a safety relief valve, it’s common practice that valves need to be locked.

A: Valves which operate with a wheel are simple locking problems to solve. A chain or a the cable is wrapped around such the wheel rim or spokes, and again around something fixed nearby support or some pipework or secured in place with a padlock.

B: Valves which turn through 90° via a lever or wrench are more problematic because the chain or cable can slide off the end of the lever negating the locking function.

Without such functionality integral to the valve design, operators adopt many types of after-market or retrofit incorrect systems that can lead to accidents or disasters cue an incorrect procedure or a device used to secure/lock the valve.

Building a Lockout Program:

It is important for all companies to build a lockout program to put in place safety procedures. Valves safety Lockout programs are often tricky; however, an effective one can make all the difference!

1.       Create a detailed lock out tag out procedure.

2.       Notify affected employees.

3.       Make the procedures easy accessible.

4.       Follow the detailed procedures.

5.       Swap correctly during shift changes

6.       Train employees on using lockout devices and the importance of respecting locked and tagged hazardous energy.

7.       Review and audit procedures regularly.

RAAH Safety is an organization that continues to do best to assist companies to prevent injuries through safety solutions for Valves Safety. We are specialist providers of trapped key interlocks, lockout tagout systems, and valve operating lockout equipment globally. Our range of Valve safety solutions help workers involved in the laborious task of valve operation and exercising. We can advise and deliver a solution that will reduce the risk of workplace accidents caused due to unexpected machinery (energy) released or start-up.

In conclusion, when valves need to be locked, don’t be oversold. Find a solution that meets your functional requirements. RAAH Safety – Be safe, your family needs you!