Fire Safety

General guidelines

• Do not smoke in the workshop.
• Wear fire resistant clothing, natural fibres such as cotton or wool are preferable.
• The soldering hearth should be as isolated as possible from other work areas, especially areas that contain chemicals or dust.
• When using a grinding wheel, protect against flying sparks.
• Do not store flammable materials near the soldering hearth; this includes paper, polishing rags, powders and cotton wool.
• All flammable chemicals should be kept in the correct type of container (usually the one it was supplied in). The container should not be too full and the top should be replaced as soon as possible after opening.
• Make sure that all electrical equipment and wiring is in good condition.
• Do not overload power sockets.
• Practice good housekeeping – clean up flammable materials regularly and keep the route to the fire exit clear.
• Do not allow dust to accumulate in the vents on power tools or in the filters on dust filters, fume extractors and polishing machines.
• Keep a fire extinguisher near the fire exit, and know how to use it.
• If in doubt, the fire brigade can give advice.
• When creating a workshop, check that it complies with the building regulations.

Fuel cylinders

• Do not handle fuel cylinders with dirty hands, all valves and hoses must be kept clean and free of debris.
• Make sure that all fuel valves are properly closed when leaving the workshop.
• Store cylinders in an upright position in a well ventilated area.
• Cylinders should be stored where they won’t get accidentally knocked over, but they should also be restrained by a chain or strap.
• Make sure that cylinders are clearly marked with the contents. Do not use unlabelled cylinders.
• Only ever use the correct type of hoses and connectors, do not improvise.
• Fuel regulators should only be repaired by suitably qualified staff, usually the supplier.