Learn how to not burn.  This safety task is fairly simple.  According to OSHA identify potential sources of flammable gases and then identify potential ignition sources.  You identify potential sources of flammable gases by knowing what flammable gases which could potentially be on site.  Do this by examining your job site and identify activities involving cutting of steel (oxy acetylene), heating systems (propane heaters), gas powered fork lifts (propane or natural gas), repair or installation of hot water heaters or heating systems (natural gas), etc.

Next, identify potential sources of ignition, such as electrical breaker boxes, open fire/flame, electric light/power switches, steel grinding or cutting, steel/metal welding/brazing, gasoline powered engines (cars, trucks, etc.).

If the flammable gases on site are strictly controlled then escaping flammable gases is greatly reduced BUT not completely eliminated.  Good safety practices: Control flammable gases in the surrounding atmosphere and ignition creation in locations where flammable gases cannot accumulate or contact each other.

Check out OSHA’s page at https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/semiconductors/solutions/flammable_gases.html

(Originally published January 1, 2019)