Proper Use and Care of Oxy-Fuel Gas Torch Hoses
The Problem
Oxy-fuel gas torch hoses are essential for safe cutting and welding operations—but if they are damaged, contaminated, or poorly maintained, they can lead to fires, explosions, and serious injury. Today, we’ll look at the hazards associated with oxy-fuel hoses and discuss safe handling, inspection, and maintenance practices to help prevent dangerous incidents.
Identify the Hazards
- Gas Leaks: Damaged hoses or faulty connections can lead to gas leaks, creating a risk of fire or explosion.
- Burns and Injuries: Unexpected gas release or contact with hot surfaces can result in burns.
- Contamination: Hoses exposed to oil, grease, or debris can degrade, increasing the risk of failure.
- Tripping Hazards: Tangled, kinked, or poorly stored hoses can cause serious slips, trips, and falls on site.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Use Approved Hoses
- Only use hoses specifically designed for oxy-fuel gas torches.
- Follow colour coding: green for oxygen, red for acetylene — never interchange hoses to avoid confusion.
Pre-Use Inspection
- Blow out hoses with clean, dry gas before connecting to remove any foreign material.
- Inspect hoses for cracks, leaks, burns, or wear. Replace damaged hoses immediately — do not use tape or temporary fixes.
- Leak Detection and Repair
- Use soapy water to test hose connections — bubbles will indicate a leak.
- Never use tape to seal leaks. Repairs must be carried out by authorized personnel using approved fittings.
Securing Hose Connections
- Use only crimped fittings or clamps approved for oxy-fuel hose use.
- Do not use general-purpose hose clamps or makeshift fasteners.
- Protect Hoses from Contamination and Damage
- Keep hoses free from oil, grease, solvents, and metal filings.
- Avoid running hoses over sharp edges, dragging them across rough surfaces, or allowing them to be caught in moving equipment.
Protect Hoses from External Hazards
- Keep hoses clear of sparks, open flames, welding slag, and hot surfaces.
- Store hoses in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from extreme temperatures or heavy objects.
- Minimal Tape Usage
- If taping hoses together to prevent tangling, use no more than 100 mm of tape for every 300 mm of hose length.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a building site, a worker used a hose that had oil residue on it. Under pressure, the contaminated hose deteriorated and leaked acetylene, which ignited and caused a small fire. Luckily, it was quickly controlled, but the event could have been avoided with a proper inspection and cleaning before use.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect hoses for damage, leaks, or contamination before every use.
- Use only approved hoses and fittings.
- Keep hoses clear of hazards and avoid creating tripping risks.
- Immediately report any damaged or unsafe hoses to your supervisor.
Employer Responsibilities
- Supply approved oxy-fuel hoses and ensure they are stored and maintained correctly.
- Train workers on proper hose inspection, use, and storage.
- Ensure only authorized personnel carry out hose repairs or replacements.
Discussion & Questions
- What are the most common hose hazards you’ve seen on site?
- How can we better manage hose storage and prevent damage?
- Do you have any questions about inspecting hoses or detecting leaks?
Encourage the team to share practical suggestions or lessons learned.
Commitment/Action Plan
Starting today, let’s all commit to inspecting our oxy-fuel hoses before every use and reporting any damage or improper use right away. Hose safety is non-negotiable—our health and safety depend on it.
Wrap-Up
Safe use of oxy-fuel hoses is a critical part of cutting and welding operations. Fires, explosions, and injuries can be prevented through simple daily checks, proper handling, and correct storage. Let’s all take responsibility and follow these guidelines to protect ourselves and our team.
Standards Overview
Under Canadian workplace health and safety legislation, employers and organizations have a duty to eliminate or minimize risks from plant and equipment, including gas hoses. Key requirements include:
- Inspecting hoses before use for signs of damage or deterioration
- Ensuring only trained and authorized personnel carry out repairs
- Protecting hoses from excessive heat, sharp edges, and mechanical stress
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) provides guidance on safe gas cutting and welding practices, including maintenance of hoses and gas delivery systems.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
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