Requirement for spark-proof tools in Class 1 Div. 1

29 Apr.,2024

 

Requirement for spark-proof tools in Class 1 Div. 1

lhutto said:

Can anyone provide any information on the requirements for the use of spark-proof tools in a Class 1 Div. 1 area? I have been searching for over a week and have been sent in circles with no direct answer.I need to ensure that the maintenance personnel are ok to work in these areas with out having to use brass tools for eveything. If someone could point me to the standard or publication for this I would appreciate any help as soon as possible because we are in the process of buying brass tools for all our mechanics because of this.

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I can't give any information on requirements/regulation. I don't even know that there are any regulations - other than OSHA general duty clause - and that may not apply to you.

However, here is the philosophy that I have been working to for the last 40 years - a lot of that time iin so called hot areas, such as av-gas tank yards. I would never depend on non-sparking tools to keep an atmosphere close to the LEL from igniting. I could not send anyone into an atmosphere above 10% LEL. Some places I have worked set the %LEL limit at any reading at all.

Working in a C1D1 area is not particularly dangerous. Working in an area suceptable to flammable vapors and not monitoring is foolhearty and will eventually clean the gene pool.

So what do you do to reduce the risk to a low level? There are excellent %LEL meters (sniffers) on the market that can be calibrated to the exact chemical you are dealing with. Keep the atmosphere out of the explosive range. Either be way below the LEL, or way above the UEL. If you have to get in the area, turn on the ventilation, don't go in until the atmosphere sniffs clean. Use a calibrated meter.

The biggest issue I have with non-sparking tools is the message they send, "It's okay to go into a flammable atmosphere, you have non-sparking tools. Nothing will happen." Anything goes wrong, anything at all, a tiny static spark, you can't get away from it - the air is on fire. And if somehow you survive the heat without burning your lungs to a crisp, you are not going to survive the lack of oxygen.

Get the meters. Get the calibration equipment. Get the ventilation. Sniff the area as you go in. If the process is ongoing, continuously monitor. If the %LEL starts up, set the tools down and get out. Don't go back until it is clear.

People have been doing this work safely for a lot of years - but it is all predicated on keeping the atmosphere well below the LEL - not on using copper-beryllium tools.

Side Note: c-b is a lot better than brass and they look really neat. I have a couple of hammers - expensive suckers.:grin:

cf

I can't give any information on requirements/regulation. I don't even know that there are any regulations - other than OSHA general duty clause - and that may not apply to you.However, here is the philosophy that I have been working to for the last 40 years - a lot of that time iin so called hot areas, such as av-gas tank yards. I would never depend on non-sparking tools to keep an atmosphere close to the LEL from igniting. I could not send anyone into an atmosphere above 10% LEL. Some places I have worked set the %LEL limit at any reading at all.Working in a C1D1 area is not particularly dangerous. Working in an area suceptable to flammable vapors and not monitoring is foolhearty and will eventually clean the gene pool.So what do you do to reduce the risk to a low level? There are excellent %LEL meters (sniffers) on the market that can be calibrated to the exact chemical you are dealing with. Keep the atmosphere out of the explosive range. Either be way below the LEL, or way above the UEL. If you have to get in the area, turn on the ventilation, don't go in until the atmosphere sniffs clean. Use a calibrated meter.The biggest issue I have with non-sparking tools is the message they send, "It's okay to go into a flammable atmosphere, you have non-sparking tools. Nothing will happen." Anything goes wrong, anything at all, a tiny static spark, you can't get away from it - the air is on fire. And if somehow you survive the heat without burning your lungs to a crisp, you are not going to survive the lack of oxygen.Get the meters. Get the calibration equipment. Get the ventilation. Sniff the area as you go in. If the process is ongoing, continuously monitor. If the %LEL starts up, set the tools down and get out. Don't go back until it is clear.People have been doing this work safely for a lot of years - but it is all predicated on keeping the atmosphere well below the LEL - not on using copper-beryllium tools.Side Note: c-b is a lot better than brass and they look really neat. I have a couple of hammers - expensive suckers.:grin:cf

Non-sparking tools: The must-have safety tools

What is a non sparking tool?

A non sparking tool (also referred to as spark-resistant or spark-reduced) is a tool that is only capable of producing a cool or low energy spark. This is due to the fact that, unlike steel tools, non-sparking tools are manufactured from metals that absorb heat. These include copper tools and brass tools as well as any beryllium non-sparking tool.

Although a non-sparking tool is technically capable of generating a spark, the spark produced from these types of tools is so low in temperature it wouldn’t be capable of igniting. This makes non sparking tools safe to use in environments where flammable gasses or materials present a health and safety risk.

Where are non-sparking tools used?

Non-sparking tools are used when the job or environment presents a high risk of fire or explosion. For this reason, you’ll find non-sparking tools used in a wide range of commercial industries, most significantly in sectors that process flammable chemicals, materials, or gasses, such as hydrogen.

This can include the production and manufacture of things such as fireworks, paint, explosives, and pharmaceuticals. You’ll also find non sparking tools widely used throughout the oil and gas industry, such as in oil refineries and on offshore oil rigs at sea.

Coal mines and grain silos are other places where non sparking tools are commonly used.

What are non-sparking tools made of?

Non-sparking tools are made from metals that only produce a cool or low energy spark. These include brass and bronze as well as copper-based alloys such as copper-nickel, copper-aluminium, or copper-beryllium, with copper being the primary component.

Non-sparking tools can also be distinguished from regular tools by the fact they don’t contain any steel. That’s because this metal type, commonly used in the production of tools, is known to produce hot sparks at temperatures capable of igniting flammable gasses.

Tools made from steel, therefore, are unsafe to be certified as non-sparking, which is why steel is not a metal used by non-sparking tool manufacturers.

Must-have non-sparking tools

Hammers

Steel hammers can easily generate sparks during striking. Using a non sparking hammer, such as those made of copper beryllium, will ensure you stay safe in environments where sparks can cause flammable liquids or gasses to ignite.

Wrenches

Non-sparking wrenches will help you to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts safely in environments where flammable materials represent an explosion risk.

Pliers

Non-sparking pliers are an essential tool for maintaining operational health & safety standards in industries such as oil and gas. 

Are you interested in learning more about Non-sparking Driver Type Handle? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Scrapers

A non-sparking scraper is the perfect tool to turn to if you need to remove gravel, dirt, or other substances from the ground in hazardous conditions.

Sockets

If you’re using a ratchet and socket for a job that presents a high risk of explosion it’s essential that the tool you use is manufactured from a non-sparking metal.

Screwdrivers

Non-sparking screwdrivers in a range of sizes can ensure you’re always able to remove or affix screws safely when working near flammable substances.

How to maintain copper-beryllium non-sparking tools?

Non-sparking tools require a little more care than those made of iron or steel, however, you can easily maintain copper-beryllium tools in the following ways:

  • Avoid dropping or throwing the tool. Always place it down carefully after use.
  • Make sure you always select the most appropriate tool for the job to reduce tool slips.
  • Always clean non-sparking tools after using them to prevent contamination.
  • Check the condition of your tools regularly for deterioration – especially the tools you use most often.
  • When using non-sparking hammers, make a conscious effort not to overstrike.
  • Keep copper-beryllium tools clear of corrosive substances that can compromise their non-sparking properties.
  • When sharpening non sparking tools, always wear appropriate PPE such as safety goggles, gloves, and a face mask. 
  • Always keep your non-sparking tools separate from other tools.

Conclusion

Non-sparking tools are essential for any job that brings you into close contact with, or proximity to, flammable materials. They’re also a health and safety necessity when working in industries with a high explosion risk, such as oil & gas.

It’s never worth using a traditional tool in a situation where you should be using a non-sparking tool. Not only could you jeopardise your own safety, you also put other lives at risk.

Like all responsible tool manufacturers, at Red Box we offer a range of non-sparking tools in a variety of certified non sparking metals. You’ll find the full range, which includes Bahco non sparking tools, on our website.  

FAQs

Is stainless steel considered non-sparking metal?

No. Stainless steel is not considered a non-sparking metal.

Does copper cause sparks?

Copper can produce sparks but only cold sparks. Copper quickly absorbs heat, which is why it’s one of the primary metals used in the manufacture of non-sparking tools.

Can aluminium make a spark?

Yes. Pure aluminium can spark. Aluminium alloys such as copper-aluminium, however, are considered non-spark, providing copper is the primary metal.

Who uses non sparking tools?

Non-sparking tools are used in industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, coal mining, and grain silos, as well as in the production of fireworks, explosives and paint manufacturing. 

What makes a tool non-sparking?

A tool is non-sparking if it’s made from a non-sparking classified metal such as bronze, brass, copper-nickel, copper-aluminium, or copper-beryllium.

For more Non-sparking Hinged Handleinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.