How often should hoses carrying combustible gases be inspected?

Hoses carrying combustible gases should be inspected at the beginning of each working shift to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. This practice is crucial because it allows for the identification of any wear, leaks, or damage that could lead to hazardous situations during operation. Regular inspections, conducted at the start of each shift, help to maintain the integrity of the hoses and ensure that they are functioning properly before any work commences. This proactive approach minimizes risks associated with combustible gases, enhancing the safety of personnel and the work environment.

While inspecting hoses only when visible signs of damage occur or before gas changes may seem sufficient, those methods do not provide the same level of ongoing safety assurance. It’s essential to routinely check the equipment regularly to identify potential issues before they lead to incidents, making the shift-based inspection frequency the most effective safety measure.