Page 7 - Line Opening - CCPS Safe Work Practice

Potential Hazardous Consequences

Personnel Injury

Line or Equipment Opening, if not done properly, can lead to release of hazardous materials and personnel exposure
with serious injuries or fatalities
g Exposure to corrosive materials (i.e., acids or caustic) causing chemical burns
g Exposure to toxic materials (i.e., benzene, hydrogen sulfide, phenol)
g Exposure to hot materials (i.e., steam) causing thermal burns
g Release of material under pressure causing an injury
Personnel injuries outside of the immediate release area may occur if the released material is flammable, toxic, or
corrosive. Off-site injuries may result from large releases that occur from Line Opening activities.

Property Damage From Fire or Explosion
A release of hazardous material during a line or equipment opening can cause property damage if released materials
are flammable or corrosive. Flammable materials that are released may find an ignition source, resulting in a fire or an
explosion. Corrosive materials may damage any equipment they come into contact with.

Chemical Release and Environmental Impact: On-Site or Off-Site

In addition to the personnel injury and property damage consequences stated above, facilities must also consider
the potential for environmental damage that could result from a material release during Line Opening activities.
Environmental impacts to the air, soil, or water may be realized on-site or off-site.

SAFE WORK PRACTICE, LINE OPENING 4