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• To use positive air pressure to test a pipe, tank, or enclosure, for leaks designate an area to pressurize the structure in. This test area is to protect other employees and have a space cushion around the unit being tested. • Establish a perimeter around the test area and do not allow any unnecessary persons to enter this area during testing and trouble or leak locating. This is because with positive pressure testing the interior pressure could cause structures to have pieces loosened and they may fly off, much like an explosion. The piece can become a missile that could injure employees. Do not allow any person within the target line. The target line is the path pieces would take if they flew off due to positive interior pressures. • Designate an authority figure to apply pressure to the structure. The authority figure responsibilities will include: ❑ Being able to recognize the weak points in the structure; ❑ Ensuring pressure testing personnel avoid weak areas during the test; ❑ Communicating the hazards of pressurizing a structure to pressure testing personnel; ❑ Knowing the manufactures not to exceed pressure for the structure; ❑ When pressurizing a structure do not position any person in a pathway of interference if a piece came off as a result of positive pressure behind it. ❑ Ensuring the structure is properly pressurized. • Once the structure has been pressurized, the authority figure maintains control over the pressure testing procedure. • If leaks are detected, work cannot be performed on the structure until the authority figure ensures the structure has been safely depressurized. • Repeat above steps until structure passes test. 5.1.12 Pipe Fusion Machine Safety Pipe fusion machines are used to connect two pieces of various size HDPE pipe together. All personnel who operate these machines should review the operator's manual prior to using the machine. The potential for injuries occurs during the transportation and operation of the machines. The following practices should be followed to minimize the chance of injuries: • All personnel should review the operator's manual and shall have the safe operation of the unit reviewed with them by an experienced operator. • Pipe fusion machines must be securely tied down when being transported from job site to job site or area to area. • Lifting pipe fusion machines with mechanical equipment(track hoes or back hoes)must be done with approved lifting devices(i.e., lifting straps). • Lifting straps or cleaveses must be inspected before each use and rated for the weight of the machine. 5-6