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The new color-coding scheme for pressure hoses adopted by the WaterJet Technology Association-Industrial & Municipal Cleaning Association (WJTA-IMCA) will take effect on Jan. 1, 2013, the association announced.
The color coding scheme appears in the Recommended Practices for the Use of High Pressure Waterjetting Equipment, published by the WJTA-IMCA.
"The purpose of the color coding scheme is to help ensure on-the-job safety by making various hoses more easily identifiable on sight," said George Savanick, Ph.D., chairman of the WJTA-IMCA Safety Committee for High Pressure.
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Flow International Corp. |
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WJTA-IMCA will adopt the safety practice of coloring entire high-pressure hoses instead of using only color-coded stickers.
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The Board of Directors of the WJTA-IMCA approved the new color-coded safety scheme at a September 2011 meeting.
Avoiding Safety Hazards
By coloring entire hoses instead of color-coded stickers, the association hopes to help contractors avoid the danger of using a hose at the wrong pressure.
Although the change doesn't take effect until the new year, the Recommended Practices manual was updated in 2011 to include the new language.
The newest version states that:
"Pressure hoses are designed for various pressures and could present a safety hazard if not used for the designated working pressure. In order to better identify the pressure in use, it is recommended that the following color code scheme is used for the applicable maximum working pressure:
"The color scheme should be easily identifiable at least two feet from both hose ends.
"If working between pressures in the chart, ensure that all hoses are color coded to indicate the next higher maximum rated pressure above the intended working pressure. For example, if the desired working pressure is 12,000 psi, use a hose rated at the next highest pressure (15,000 psi)."
Recommended Practices applies to the operation of all types of high pressure waterjets used in construction, maintenance, repair, cleaning, cutting, hydro-excavation, and hydro-demolition work. The manual describes different types of equipment and operating systems used in industrial applications and establishes recommendations for safe operation of high pressure equipment, the association said.
"We encourage hose manufacturers, suppliers, and users to observe this color coding scheme in the manufacture and use of high pressure hoses," Savanick said.
About WJTA-IMCA
The WJTA-IMCA is a professional association providing service, education, and representation to members, which include contractors, manufacturers, researchers, and educators in the waterjetting, industrial cleaning, and industrial vacuum equipment industries.
The association aims to educate members, their employees, and all users of the technology on safety and best practices.
More information: www.wjta.org.
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