As professionals in the industry, we are all aware of the science behind those ‘no cell phone’ warning signs stationed so predominately, almost like guarding sentinels, at filling stations across the country. We know that the very clear and well positioned regulatory dictates are not just the product derived from an overzealous gas attendant’s aversion to our technology obsessed society but are actually a warning to those not privy to the rules of static electricity and flammable vapors that their most beloved and coveted mobile device could be the catalyst to igniting said vapors and act as an enabler to extremely hazardous conditions. This everyday occurrence of being reminded to not use our mobile devices while filling our gas tanks is definitely worth remembering if you are using vacuum trucks to control vapors when tank degassing at factories and other large facilities. The technique of grounding and bonding during a degassing operation is a practice that can safely control the accumulated static charges and prevent workplace accidents. We at Envent Corporation keep a strict adherence to workplace safety and employ preemptive tactics to avoiding hazardous situations when grounding and bonding. We have included a few of our approaches for your reference.
Voltage Levels
Even a seemingly simple degassing operation can create enough static electricity to produce an effect that could prove to potentially ensure your day goes up in flames (yes, that pun was intended). Under certain conditions, even seemingly low flow rates can create startlingly high levels of voltage. Using a device commonly known as a fluke meter to measure voltage, current, and resistance will ensure you are aware of the voltage level you are working with. We all know things aren’t always as they seem. Always use a fluke meter.
Electrical Charges
Often times, one’s own negligent operation methods can contribute to the already ever present threat of static charges. There are unsafe techniques such as “splash filling” during tank unloadings that act as a powerful agent to a possible ignition of liquids or vapors. Implementing best degassing operations and knowing how electrical charges can accumulate is an important step to ensuring safety throughout the degassing process. Always be cognizant.
Personal Culpability
Before any part of the degassing process commences, a professional adhering to best practice methods will always “walk the line” to personally confirm every pipe, connection, clamp and cam lock. There is no substitute for conviction in your work. Confirming the integrity of every connection and verifying that electrical charges will be safely dissipated into a grounded connection are practices used by the best degassing companies that also require their operators to record all of their findings in a degassing log that is provided to the client after every job. Remember Johnny Cash. Always Walk the line.
