279.1(1)Despite subsection 279(1), an employer who establishes a code of practice in accordance with subsection (2) may allow hot tapping to be undertaken on a pipe or equipment in service containing a flammable or explosive substance.
279.1(2)Before any hot tapping begins, an employer shall establish a code of practice that is specific to the type or class of hot tapping to be performed and is approved by an engineer.
279.1(3)A code of practice for hot tapping shall contain the following information:
(a)
a description of the hot tapping to be performed;
(b)
a description of any possible hazards that may affect the health or safety of employees;
(c)
the procedures to be followed and the equipment to be used when hot tapping; and
(d)
an emergency response procedure.
279.1(4)An employer shall ensure that
(a)
only competent employees are permitted to perform hot tapping,
(b)
the point in the pressure containing barrier to be hot tapped is checked and strong enough for the hot tapping to be performed safely,
(c)
there is sufficient working space at the location at which hot tapping will be performed,
(d)
exit routes are available and their locations are known by employees who perform the hot tapping,
(e)
employees wear appropriate personal protective equipment when hot tapping is performed,
(f)
material being supplied to the pipe or equipment being hot tapped can be shut off immediately in an emergency,
(g)
the hot tapping machine and accessories are of adequate design and capability for the work to be performed, and
(h)
the pressure in the pipe or equipment being hot tapped is as low as possible during the hot tapping.