Subpart D - Section 1915.54

Section 1915.54 of Subpart D discusses the precautions that must be taken to safely weld, cut, and heat metal containers such as drums, shipping containers, and tanks and other hollow structures such as skegs, bilge keels, fair waters, masts, booms, support stanchions, pipe stanchions, and railings.

Before performing hot work, it is important to determine whether any flammable substances are or have been present. If so, the object must be filled with water or thoroughly cleaned, ventilated, and tested before commencing hot work. Objects must be inspected to determine whether water or other non-flammable liquids are present.

The atmosphere inside of hollow structures may form excessive pressure when heated, so these structures must be made safe for the application of heat. During hot work on drums, containers, and hollow structures such as jacketed vessels, a vent or opening must be provided to allow air inside the container to escape as pressure builds up during the application of heat.

To learn more about Shipyard Hot Work visit our Shipyard Hot Work Online Training web page.