Annex B Appendix 4

To Loughborough University Estates Services Health and Safety Policy

Safety Procedures - Boiler Pressure Systems

Boiler House Operation – Hot Water Boilers – Action In Emergency

  1. Gas Pressurised Systems

Action in respect of gas pressurised hot water boilers not vented to atmosphere should be as follows:

  1. If natural lighting is insufficient, illuminate control panels, pressure and temperature gauges, pressure vessel water level gauges etc., with battery-operated lamps or torches.
  1. Aid thermal water circulation by opening/operating all standby circulating pumps and valves.
  1. Keep constant observation on the water level in the pressure vessel as a precaution against drawing nitrogen into the system as the water, cools and contracts. If the water level drops to the bottom of the lowest gauge glass, it may be necessary to shut off the nitrogen supply and to release small amounts of gas from the vent valve at the top of the pressure vessel in order to keep the water level in view. Great caution must be exercised to avoid the possibility of the generation of flash steam and dangerous hammering consequent parts of the heating system still at comparatively high temperature.

2.General

Report immediately, any accident or mishap involving fireside explosion or significant loss of water. (See RIDDOR Reporting).

3.Restoration Of Supply

  1. Shut all valves which were opened to aid thermal water circulation, start up the working circulation pump against a closed discharge valve, and on building up to normal speed gradually open this valve to allow the system water to be reintroduced in a controlled manner. Where systems are pressurised by a continuously running pump, this must be re-started prior to the circulating pump.
  1. Reintroduce pumps controlling water to suit requirements.
  1. Commence firing at low fire.

4.In Case Of Fire

Give the alarm in accordance with local arrangements for the building or site and then take action as follows:

a.Isolate electricity supplies and/or activate Emergency Stop Button at exit door where applicable.

b.Shut off gas supplies to the boilers where it is safe to do so and where valves as in 4.a above are not available.

c.Shut the fire valve of oil-fired boilers by operating the emergency release, if necessary shut the main oil supply and return valves (where fitted).

d.Attack the fire with the correct appliance but safety of the individual is paramount. If in doubt, leave the boilerhouse and telephone 888 for assistance, having location and details ready. Report as soon as possible to the Maintenance Engineer or other senior managers if the Maintenance Engineer is unavailable. The Estates Helpdesk (Telephone number 2121) will assist in contacting people and disseminating information if requested.

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August 2004