Line Breaking Safety
Line breaking is the intentional opening of a pipe, line, or duct that contains or has contained material capable of causing injury. OSHA requires that all members of a line breaking team understand the hazards related to the material and equipment involved. This course illustrates common hazards of line breaking and provides suggested preventative measures for this type of work. Based on general industry best practices and OSHA regulations, this course covers basic safe work procedures recommended by industry professionals when planning or working on a line break.
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Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Define “line break”
- Identify the dangers of line breaks
- Describe the importance of making a line break plan
- Identify safe work practices when performing line breaks [and]
- Describe the importance of personal protective equipment
Specs
| Course Level | Intermediate |
| Languages | English, Spanish |
| Compatibility | Audio, Video |
| Based on: | Based on: Industry Best Practices OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146 - Permit-required confined spaces |
Key Questions
What is a line break?
The opening of a pipe, line, duct, or vessel that contains or has contained hazardous material. This can be an accidental or intentional opening.
What are some line break hazards?
Flammable or combustible materials, oxidizing materials, corrosive materials, toxic materials, carcinogens, very cold materials, very hot materials, pressurized fluids and gases, steam, and strong vacuum.
What should be done before starting a line break?
Making a job plan and getting an approved line break permit.
What does a job plan include?
Reason line break is being made, potential hazards, plan for isolating or clearing line or equipment, PPE needed, personnel roles and responsibilities, and an emergency plan.
Should lockout/tagout procedures be used during a line break?
Yes, follow standard lockout/tagout procedures.
What are four methods for reducing the chances of an accidental release of hazardous materials?
Isolating, venting, draining, and purging.
What are two methods of isolation?
Blanking and double-block and bleed.
Sample Video Transcript
The double block and bleed is a common method of isolation. It involves closing two valves that are upstream from the location of the planned line break and then bleeding out the material between these valves. If the first closed valve malfunctions or leaks, the second closed valve will still protect workers from the material in the line. There are also standalone double block and bleed devices that incorporate the necessary two levels of blocking protection in one device.
Additional Resources
- U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) – www.osha.gov
- OSHA eTools – https://www.osha.gov/dep/etools/eprcs/prcsappendices.pdf
- Bodine Services of the Midwest – www.bodineservices.com
- Safety Manual – http://www.bodineservices.com/Safety_Manual/Pages/Lockout.htm#sequence
Course Applies To
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