OSHA Hazard Information Bulletins
| DATE: |
August 17, 1992 |
| MEMORANDUM FOR: |
REGIONAL ADMINISTRATORS |
| THROUGH: |
LEO CAREY
Director
Office of Field Programs |
| FROM: |
THOMAS J. SHEPICH
Director
Directorate of Technical Support |
| SUBJECT: |
Hazard Information Bulletin - Ridgid Pipe Threading Machines |
The Directorate of Technical Support issues Hazard Information Bulletins
(HIBs) in accordance with OSHA Instruction CPl 2.65 to provide relevant
information regarding potentially unrecognized safety and health hazards; and
inadequacies of materials, devices, techniques, or engineering controls.
HIBs are initiated based on information provided by the field staff, studies,
reports and concerns expressed by safety and health professionals, employers
and the public. Information is compiled based on a comprehensive evaluation
of available facts and latest literature. HIBs are normally prepared in
coordination with affected parties.
The North Aurora Area Office investigated a fatality involving a Ridgid
Model 400A pipe threading machine. It was determined that the Ridgid pipe
threading machine was not equipped with a deadman foot switch, which could
have prevented the fatality.
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard for pipe tools,
B208.1-1982 "Cord-Connected Portable Pipe Threading Machines and Portable
Power Drives-Safety Requirements," Paragraph 4.4, requires that a momentary
contact device be used to control the power input to the cord-connected
portable pipe threading machine or power drive. A guarded foot switch is an
example of such momentary contact device.
The manufacturer, Ridge Tool Company, did not include foot switches on
machines manufactured prior to January 1, 1975. However, in a letter to all
Ridgid distributors dated 10/26/87, Ridge Tool Company provided a list of
models which can be retrofitted with foot switches. Ridge Tool Company also
distributed a supplement to its equipment operator's manuals which addresses
the use of foot switches on pipe threading machines.
Compliance and Consultation personnel should be aware of the applicable ANSI
standards for pipe threading machines and that failure to install and use an
appropriate momentary contact device may result in a fatal accident.
Please distribute this bulletin to all Area Offices, State Plan States and
Consultation Projects.
|
Back to Top
Printing Instructions