Controlling ignition sources from combustible materials is a challenge
in our aluminium plants. Engineering controls is the primary tool in preventing
ignition sources and combustibles from interacting. Unfortunately, maintenance
workers and contractors can be a source of ignition that is challenge to
control. Here is a recent incident highlight the hazard associated with maintenance
work.
A fire broke out this afternoon in the aluminium plant in
Europe, the company of produces aluminum profiles. The flames affected the roof
of the structure, where it seems that some workers were carrying out
maintenance work. Three vehicles from the local firefighters promptly
intervened on the spot and put out the fire and made the area safe.
We are ecstatic that no one was injured in this incident. This is a
perfect story to use a toolbox talk for the maintenance department.
Illustrating the potential hazard of activities that the maintenance department
performs. Ignition sources can come from a spark (from grinding), welding, or electrically.
It is important that maintenance workers are educated on what activities have
the potential for a production an ignition source. It is these tasks or procedures
that should be highlighted to ensure that sparks are controlled and contained.
Also, it should be noted that areas where maintenance workers performed such tasks
should be inspected afterwards, and 10-20 after the task is completed to ensure
that a spark is not slowly igniting a combustible material. Why? Because there
have been numerous incidents where a combustible material is ignited long after
a maintenance worker(s) departed the area. Just a thought.
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