General Pump VH - Manual (Page 4)

GENERAL PUMP
A member of the Interpump Group
VH SERIES
3.3 Safety of operation
The access into the area when a high pressure unit is
working should be strictly prohibited to unauthorized
personnel. The area should be suitably enclosed and its
perimeter, so far as is reasonably practical, cordoned
off and proper warning notices displayed in prominent
positions.
Personnel authorized to enter that area should have been
previously trained to do so and informed of the risks
arising from failures, misuse and any foreseeable
circumstance which may occur during operation. Before
starting the pump unit and bringing it up to pressure the
Operator is requested to carry out the following checks:
1. Make sure that a correct water supply to the pump
is provided.
2. Make sure that water inlet filters are properly clean.
3. Electrical components and wiring, with special
emphasis on connections, junction boxes, switches
and supply cables should be free from external
damage (i.e. exposed and broken wires) and
adequately protected against water.
4. High pressure hose should not show apparent
external wear and the fittings at both ends should be
free from signs of erosion or corrosion.
5. Make sure that all fluids (lubricating oil for pump and
engine, cooling water, hydraulic fluids) are at proper
levels and in good condition.
6. Make sure the safety guards are in good condition.
The work should stop immediately and the pressure must
be released in the event that leakage becomes apparent
or if any person becomes aware of an change in condition
or any hazard existing or being introduced. Any failure
must be promptly reported and then checked personnel.
90 dB(A) suitable ear protection is advised.
NOTE: it must be emphasized that whereas protective
clothing provides adequate protection against spray and
flying particles, it does not constitute complete protection
protection against the direct impact of the water jet.
Additional protections in the form of suitable metal shields
or barriers may be necessary for certain jetting operation.
3. In most jetting operations it is an accepted practice
to employ a team of Operators consisting of two
members at least, in order to provide mutual
assistance in case of need and to rotate their duties
in case of long and heavy work. While the first
Operator holds the gun, the second Operator attends
the pump unit, keeping close watch on the first
Operator for signs of difficulty or fatigue, and
watching the surrounding area for intrusion by other
persons or unsafe situations. If required, he will shut
off the pressure unit until it is safe to continue.
4. The area in which the work is to proceed should be
clear of loose items and debris to prevent
tripping and slipping hazards.
5. The water jet should be directed only and always
against the workpiece even during preliminary
operating tests prior to starting work.
6. Where applicable, proper side shields should be
suitable placed to safeguard personnel and
equipment against contact with grit or particles
removed by the water jet.
7. On no account must the Operator be distracted
during operation until the jet has been stopped.
Personnel having reason to enter the water jetting
area should wait until the jet is stopped and his
presence known.
8. Each team member must always be aware of the
actions and intentions of other team members in order
to prevent any dangerous misunderstanding occurring
during jetting operation.
9. The pump unit should not be started and brought up
to pressure unless each team member is in his
designated position, the nozzle directed to the
workpiece and the lance or gun securely held.
3.5 Safety of maintenance
Apart from the working pressure regulation no attempt
should be made to adjust any nut, hose, fitting, etc., while
that part of the system is under pressure. The pump
should be stopped and any pressure in the line released
prior to making any adjustments.
1. The high pressure water unit should be maintained in
accordance with the Manufacturer’s instructions.
2. The unit should be maintained only by competent
personnel
3. Service and maintenance should be carried out with
proper tools in order to prevent any damage on high
pressure connections and fittings.
4. Use of other than original spar parts is strictly
forbidden.
3.4 General procedures for high pressure gun/lance
operation
1. the Operator should take reasonable care for the
safety of himself and of other persons who may be
affected by his acts or omission at work. His actions
should always be governed by his good sense and
responsibility.
2. the Operator should wear suitable waterproof
protective clothing, having regard to the type of work
being undertaken. The clothing set should include
adequate hand protection, suitable boots able to
ensure proper grip on wet floors, helmet provided with
full face shield, waterproof garment providing full
cover to the Operator, including his arms.
As most water jets produce noise levels in excess of
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