5/2016
Importance of Preventing Unauthorized Operation of Valves
We have written many articles about how debris caps will save money, improve efficiency, and more but one of the lesser discussed topics tends to be how they can prevent unauthorized operation of valves. This may sound relatively unimportant but it is actually incredibly important. In a city of municipality, pipes and valves control the distribution of things like water and gas to residences and businesses. There are many city codes that mandate that no pipes or valve should be shut off by anyone that is unauthorized - such as someone that is not a city employee or someone that is not the owner or operator of the pipeline. These codes are in place to protect the pipes and valves, residents, businesses, structures, and the unauthorized person from damage. But, unfortunately, while a code is in place, many people do not know about the code or may not care and have access to the pipes and valves. For this reason, we encourage all cities and municipalities to implement debris caps fitted with a lockout mechanism.
Our new locking device converts the standard debris cap into a formidable lockout mechanism that will prevent unauthorized access and operation of pipes an valves. This helps cut liability, insurance and maintenance costs as well as helps businesses remain OSHA compliant. Recent OSHA rulings have made it incredibly clear that the protection of personnel who may find themselves in hazardous situations involving valves, switches, etc. should be protected throughout the implementation of a lockout device of some sort. At SW Services, we have made a simple yet innovative product that not only keeps dirt and debris out of pipes and valves but also can be locked out while switches are opened or closed while work is being performed on a line. Additionally, the lockout will prevent unauthorized access by non-employees as well which protects everyone. In the past, the ability to lock out riser access to water/gas/sewer valves has not properly existed and with the introduction of the locking debris cap, a new standard can be met. Because they can be locked during service or during an emergency, it also helps prevent dangerous circumstances in the event of an emergency when there is often a lot of commotion and confusion. For all of these reasons, and more, it is not only important, but can actually save lives, to implement a debris cap with a lockout mechanism on all of your pipes and valves.