Tool Box Talk: Line of Fire

Line of Fire

“Line of fire” is a military term that describes the path of a discharged missile or firearm. It’s the path an object will travel. In the workplace, particularly, there are many objects that have potential to create ‘line of fire’ exposure.

Examples of line of fire hazards:

• Electric hand tools which could kick back if they jam or catch
• Torque wrenches or other levers used to apply force
• Chains or slings under tension
• Loads that could fall or tip as restraints are released
• Fluids (hydraulic, air, water) when a tap is opened or a fitting loosened
• Shards flying when hitting brittle materials with a hammer
• Mobile equipment

On nearly every job there is something which could hit, spray, pinch or crush. The first priority should be to eliminate these hazards entirely if possible, but if not, we must focus on moving ourselves out of the line of fire. Don’t forget to look for by-standers who could be in the line of fire too – the right amount of energy can send things flying a very long way. It is important to always remember that Line of Fire hazards are some of the most deadly hazards found in industry, second only to Slip, Trips and Falls.

Awareness is the first line of defense. Be alert for conditions that may change where the line of fire zone exists, including wind gusts and falling objects. Perform a job site walk-down to identify potential latent conditions. Recognize and avoid areas where barricades and hazard signs are installed. Pay close attention to personnel and objects above, below and in the immediate work area during any job evaluation.

Lifting/Hoisting

• Never walk under a suspended load.
• Communicate to other workers when entering a lifting/hoisting zone, even if for a short period.
• Balance the load prior to lifting.
• Rigging equipment shall never be loaded in excess of its maximum safe loading limit.

Tensioned Lines

• Be aware and stay clear of tensioned lines such as cable, chain and rope.
• Use only correct gripping devices. Select proper equipment based on size and load limit.
• Be cautious of torque stresses that drilling equipment and truck augers can generate. Equipment can rotate unexpectedly long after applied torque force has been stopped.

Objects with Fall Potential

• Not all objects may be overhead; be especially mindful of top-heavy items and items being transported by forklift or flatbed.

Objects with Roll Potential

• Secure objects that can roll such as tools, cylinders and poles.
• Secure rolling stock using approved binders; apply parking brakes or use chocks to prevent movement.

Pressurized Cylinders and Lines

• Safety standards for compressed cylinders include chaining all tanks upright and installing caps when not in use.

High-Pressure Hydraulic Tools

• Only trained or instructed individuals should change fittings on or make modifications to hydraulic tools.

Regulator/Gauge Pressurization

• During the instant that pressure is introduced into a cylinder regulator gauge, stand aside and avoid facing the front or back of the regulator gauge.

Electrical Equipment

• Stand aside when racking breakers into position in case of malfunction and breaker fragments.
• Stay clear of equipment when breakers are being closed remotely.

Spring-Loaded Devices

• Springs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can release tremendous energy if compression as tension is suddenly released.

Vehicle/Heavy Equipment

• Use parking brakes and wheel chocks for any vehicle or equipment parked on an incline.
• When working near moving, heavy equipment such as trucks and cranes, remain in operator’s full view.

Obtain operator’s attention prior to approaching equipment.

• Take precautions for all pedestrian and vehicle traffic when positioning vehicles and equipment at a job site.

Working at Heights

• Establish a drop zone, an area below any work being performed at heights. Drop zone size depends on work scope and potential for falling tools and equipment. Keep the drop zone clear of people.
• If work at the structure base is unavoidable, inform the worker above. Make sure work stops. Secure tools and equipment prior to working below.
• Materials should never be dropped from above. Use special devices to provide tools and equipment to workers above.
• Stay clear of equipment actively being worked. Never position yourself or vehicles in close proximity to them.

“The real act of discovery is not in finding new lands, but in seeing with new eyes” —  Marcel Proust

Thanks for the share, TO!