Pipefitter Safety Procedures and Codes 2

Question 1

Under OSHA's Process Safety Management (PSM) standard (29 CFR 1910.119), what type of facility is subject to PSM requirements?

Accepted Answer

Facilities that handle highly hazardous chemicals above threshold quantities defined in Appendix A

Answer

Any facility that uses natural gas for heating

Answer

All petrochemical facilities regardless of chemical quantities

Answer

Facilities with more than 100 employees in chemical industries

Question 2

What is the minimum air quality requirement for 'safe for entry' into a confined space for oxygen content per OSHA 1910.146?

Accepted Answer

19.5% to 23.5%

Answer

17.0% to 23.5%

Answer

18.0% to 22.0%

Answer

20.9% (exact atmospheric level only)

Question 3

What does ASME B31.3 require for a 'Category D' fluid service piping system regarding leak testing?

Accepted Answer

Initial service leak test (system may be inspected during first pressurization to operating conditions)

Answer

Full radiographic examination on all welds

Answer

Hydrostatic test at 1.5 times design pressure

Answer

No testing required — visual inspection only

Question 4

Under OSHA's hot work permit system, which actions are required BEFORE beginning torch cutting on a pipe in an active refinery?

Accepted Answer

Obtain a written hot work permit signed by a responsible individual, verify the area is cleared of flammables, and have a fire watch in place

Answer

Post a warning sign only. No permit needed for experienced pipefitters.

Answer

Notify OSHA and wait 24 hours

Answer

Only needed if welding in occupied buildings. Cutting outdoors is exempt.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a 'line break permit' when a pipefitter must open an existing in-service piping system?

Accepted Answer

A controlled work authorization that verifies the line is properly isolated, de-pressured, drained, and safe to open before breaking into any piping

Answer

Authorization from the owner to modify the pipe routing permanently

Answer

A permit to work overtime on a shutdown

Answer

Written permission from the welder to cut the pipe

Question 6

What is the purpose of a pressure relief valve (PRV) in a piping system, and what code governs its sizing for pressure vessels?

Accepted Answer

It protects equipment and piping from overpressure by opening to discharge excess pressure; vessels sized per ASME Section VIII, process relief per API 520/521

Answer

It maintains constant system pressure; sized per ASME B31.3

Answer

It acts as a flow control device; sized per the fluid's specific gravity

Answer

It prevents backflow; sized per ANSI/ISA standards