Pressurized System Safety Guide

Large-Scale or High Pressure Setups

In addition to the guidelines for small-scale laboratory setups.

Vessel Construction

• All pressure vessels and piping must be constructed, repaired, altered, or tested according to the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.
  
  
• Protect all pressure equipment by adequate pressure- relieving devices which vent to a safe location.
  
  
• Set safety or relief valves to blow at a pressure not to exceed the MAWP set for the intended operating temperature.
  
  
• Be sure the capacity of the pressure-relieving device is sufficient to carry off the maximum quantity of liquid or gas that can be generated in or supplied to the attached equipment without permitting a rise in pressure in the vessel to more than 10% above the maximum allowable working pressure.
  
  
• Take the nature of the vessel's contents into account in the design of pressure-relieving devices.
  
  
• Do not install a valve between a safety valve or similar device and the vessel being protected by it.
  
  
• Test safety valves at frequent intervals.
  
  
• Locate apparatus to be used under pressure only in areas specifically designed for that purpose.

Vessel Operation and Maintenance

• Do not subject pressure equipment to any pressure exceeding the maximum allowable working pressure as determined by the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code or as recommended by the manufacturer.
  
  
• If pressure equipment is to be used above 650 degrees Fahrenheit, display the maximum allowable working pressure on the apparatus.
  
  
• Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance and inspection procedure.