OAR 437-002-0297: Oregon Requirements for Welding or Cutting Containers

Note: 1910.252(a)(3)(i) was not adopted by the Department. In Oregon, 437-002-0297 applies instead. (1) A competent person must ensure that the following actions are taken before any hot work (such as welding, or torch- or abrasive-cutting is performed on drums, barrels, or tanks that contain substances that are flammable or that could produce toxic vapors when subjected to heat: (a) Clean and ventilate the containers to eliminate these substances, including solvents, greases, tars, acids, and surface coatings that could be affected; (b) Disconnect or blank any pipe lines or connections to the container unless it is necessary for the release of pressure during the application of heat. (2) Use appropriate atmospheric testing equipment during the hot work operation to confirm that the air in the work area at the container remains within safe parameters. (3) Document the actions taken to ensure safe conditions were maintained. (4) Retain this documentation for at least one year following completion of the work.