MAINTENANCE ALERT

MANUFACTURING DIVISION

TITLE:

ALERT: M-M-MR-M-005
Date: Feb-2014
Rev : 000

Use of Breathing Apparatus in Maintenance Works

Why & when to use BAS

On some occasions the presence of toxic gases or in
atmospheres with O2 deficiency, demands the use
of breathing apparatus with continuous air supply
for the execution of maintenance works.
Some examples of these works are:
Breaking flanges in lines with potential
presence of toxic gases
Repair / arrest leakages of toxic gases.
Entering within confines spaces with pretense
of gases or oxygen insufficiency.
Entering within reactors during catalyst
unloading.
Maintenance of Instruments when suspected
the presence of trapped toxic gases.

The proper use of the BAS by properly trained

personnel is extremely important and mandatory
when indicated by Operations in the PTW.

Precautions / preparation when using BAS

Because it is a high risk activity, a proper and
complete preparation needs to be done prior starting
the work.
Visit the job site to determine the best location for
the Air Trolley (Air Cart), preferable at ground
level, the closer to the work location and
upstream of the source of gases (check the wind
direction) ; in case of leakage, the gases should
not reach the area of the Air Trolley.
Determine the number of Air Trolleys based on
the number of BAS users, (recommended 2 users
per trolley).
Provide enough spare air cilinders, depending on
the expected duration of the works; a single Air
Trolley can provide from 30 to 45 min. to two
users.
Determine the length of the hoses to allow the
free movement of the users from the air trolley till
the work locations; special care when climbing
ladders to reach elevated locations.
Determine the escape route for a quick & safe
evacuation in case of emergency; in such cases
the air line will be disconnected, the valve of the
escape cylinder opened and the person will go to
the closest assembly point (escape cylinder will
provide 5 minutes of breathable air).
Veryfy the good conditions of the BAS and the
pressure on the air cylinder as well.
Confirm the all personnel have been trained in the
use of the BAS. A dedicated operator for the Air
Trolley need to be alllocated .
Ensure radio communication and visual contact
with the crew at the work site.
Provide a multi gas detector at the work location
A comprehesive JSA to be prepared and shared
with all the personnel taking part of the jobs.
Like any other maintenance work, do not procced
until a PTW has been issued and signed.

Safety is our first priority