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Pauline Palmer  
#1 Posted : 23 May 2012 13:30:59(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Pauline Palmer

I am looking for some advice. We will have a scenario where we will have employees working in an area with live pipework/vessels. What is the acceptable temperature of the exterior of the pipework/vessel? before any protection - ie insulation, barriers or PPE is put in place. OR can anyone advise where I can source this information, Ive spent a lot of time today on HSE website and various others to no avail. Pauline
Ron Hunter  
#2 Posted : 23 May 2012 13:53:02(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Ron Hunter

A starter for 10 then: ftp://ftp.cencenelec.eu/...LC/29_CENELECGuide29.pdf Internet Search term "touch temperature limits"
bilbo  
#3 Posted : 23 May 2012 13:58:45(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
bilbo

Pauline - you can sustain skin damage at 38 degrees C, a lot will depend on contact time and the individuals likely to be affected - it is well documented that persons on certain medications will burn at significantly lower temperatures than others as will those who smoke (as smoking induces premature skin ageing) . There is a guide published by NHS Estates relatingto Surface temperatures and whilst this is principally aimed at radiators and supply pipework - this guide suggests 42 degrees C if memory serves.
Pauline Palmer  
#4 Posted : 23 May 2012 14:07:07(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Pauline Palmer

Ron & Bilbo, thanks for the prompt reply. Ron the web link provides a graph with a sliding scale giving temperature and contact time results, which backs up what Bilbo states. Only wish I had posted a couple of hours ago! Thanks Pauline
JJ Prendergast  
#5 Posted : 23 May 2012 16:42:04(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
JJ Prendergast

Try BSEN ISO 1332-1:2008 Ergonomics of the Thermal Environment. Methods for the assessment of human contact with surfaces
Graham Bullough  
#6 Posted : 23 May 2012 18:33:05(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Graham Bullough

Pauline - As an extension of JJ Prendergast's reference to the thermal environment, bear in mind that if the work areas involved are poorly ventilated and/or have small volumes like some confined spaces, the working atmosphere might be rendered uncomfortably warm by heat radiated from the hot surfaces involved. Forum users involved with asbestos removal work or other tasks in enclosed locations with live plant which cannot be turned off (e.g. heating systems in older hospital buildings) may be able to help regarding appropriate information.
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