This document aims to minimize accidental opening of manual valves in ammonia refrigeration systems.
As part of the energy control plan, the International Ammonia Refrigeration Institute (IIAR) issued a series of recommendations to prevent accidental opening of manual valves in ammonia (R717) refrigeration systems.
The first version of the proposal-Guidelines for developing energy control plans for manual valves in ammonia refrigeration systems-IIAR members can buy it for $150, and non-members can buy it for $300.
The control of the manual valve belongs to the control of dangerous energy, which is usually called the lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure. According to the University of Iowa Environmental Health and Safety website, this can protect workers from being injured or killed by accidental activation or the release of stored energy when maintaining and repairing machines, processes, and systems.
Hazardous energy can be electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, chemical, thermal, or other sources. “Following proper LOTO practices and procedures can protect workers from harmful energy releases,” the University of Iowa website adds.
Since the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) enacted hazardous energy control (lock/list) legislation in 1989, many industries have implemented LOTO energy control programs. But these are usually concentrated on dangerous electrical and mechanical energy; according to IIAR, the HVAC&R industry lacks clarity on the accidental opening of manual valves, which is a cause of many ammonia leaks.
The new guide aims to “fill the industry gap” and provide owners and operators of manual R717 manual valves with best practice advice on how to apply energy control plans.
Post time: Aug-21-2021