50.07.080 Miscellaneous Use of Torches/Welding Equipment

(a) General. Any person using a torch or other flame-producing device for removing paint from any building or structure within the scope of this section or for sweating pipe joints, cutting, heat welding seams, thawing pipes, building construction or demolition shall provide at least one approved minimum 2-A rated water type fire extinguisher, or minimum ½" diameter water hose connected to the water supply at the site where the burning is done.

(b) Attendance. A fire watch shall be maintained in effect for at least ½ hour after each use of the torch or flame-producing device under paragraph 1, above.

(c) Electric Welding. The provisions of paragraphs 1 and 2, above, shall apply to the uses specified in paragraph 1, above, applicable to electrical welding equipment.

(d) Storage Requirements. Storage of fuel gases, oxygen and calcium carbide for gas welding and cutting shall satisfy the following minimum requirements.

(1) All gas cylinders shall be secured to prevent falling; and

(2) Cylinders stored outside shall be protected from accumulations of ice and snow.

(3) Cylinders stored inside buildings shall be segregated from highly combustible materials and operations likely to cause an excessive rise in temperature or mechanical damage.

(4) Inside storage of fuel gases and oxygen shall be separated by a minimum of 20 feet or by a ½-hour fire-resistive partition.

(e) Hand Trucks. Hand trucks for portable gas welding and cutting equipment shall be provided with chains or steadying devices to prevent cylinders from being knocked over while being moved or while in use.