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PVC Piping and Electrostatic Discharge in Hazardous or Classified Areas On
assessments performed in the last year, WEST has found many vessels
have improper use of PVC piping in a classified or hazardous area.
PVC presents an explosion hazard because it is non-conductive and
susceptible to surface electrostatic buildup capable of igniting
an atmosphere containing explosive gas or liquid mixtures. These
installations were mostly on third party equipment, such as mud
cleaning equipment. In some instances, the use of PVC was found
as a permanent fixture of the rig's mechanical installation. This
material has been found in drains, vents, waterlines, mud vacuum
suctions, and chemical injection lines. Each of these installations
has a distinct and dangerous effect on vessel safety.  PVC piping used to transfer mud pit vapors to the main exhaust header. |