Where Are Non-sparking Tools Required?

December 29, 2021

Non-sparking tools are made from materials that do not contain iron (non-ferrous metals), so there is less risk of sparking when using the tools. Non-sparking tools prevent fires and explosions in environments that may contain flammable liquids, vapors, dust, or residues. Non-sparking tools are best used when working in confined spaces and areas where flammable gases or dust are present.


Common materials used for non-sparking tools include brass, bronze, copper-nickel alloys, copper-aluminum alloys, or copper-beryllium alloys. Beryllium alloys are less popular due to the potential toxicity of beryllium powder. Non-metals such as wood, leather, and plastic can also be used to make non-sparking tools.

 

Some common tools that are available in a non-sparking option include hammers, axes, pry bars, chisels, utility knives, mallets, pliers, screwdrivers, sockets, and wrenches. Non-sparking polypropylene shovels are often used for hazardous material spill clean-up.

T Type Wrench

 T Type Wrench

Because non-sparking tools are non-ferrous, they are softer than standard tools usually made of high-strength alloy steel. This can cause non-sparking tools to wear out faster than steel tools.

 

Regulations and Compliance

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) standard for hand-held and portable power tools and equipment [29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910.242(a)] states that "Each employer is responsible for the safe condition of tools and equipment used by employees, including tools and equipment that may be provided by employees." It is critical to keep non-sparking tools in a safe condition.

 

Non-sparking tools are essential to any good toolkit. They involve a non-ferrous coating that makes accidental sparks a thing of the past. In addition, they are not magnetic. This is due to the lack of iron in their chemical composition, which makes them very useful in many different situations. Here are a few situations where the use of non-sparking tools is essential

 

Oil rig maintenance

An oil rig is basically a big bomb waiting to explode. Fortunately, non-sparking tools are an integral part of the safety protocol for oil extraction operations. They do not recklessly cause sparks and may have prevented many potential explosions. The same is true for many natural gas extraction operations.

Non Sparking Case Opener

Non Sparking Case Opener

Hospital Equipment Maintenance

These tools are not only used to ensure safety in situations where an explosion could occur but are also well suited for the maintenance and repair of medical equipment. Magnetic resonance imaging machines often called MRIs, use large magnets to scan the brain. Because the metal composition of MRI tools does not contain iron, they are also non-magnetic tools. Titanium, for example, is 100% safe for use in diagnostic imaging and biomedical machines.


Automotive mechanical repair

Mechanics do not necessarily have to use non-sparking tools to work on a car, but if the car's gas tank is full, caution may be the best approach. Again, the danger of a spark igniting a car's fuel tank is unlikely, but if you are an auto mechanic, be alert to the possibility.


Chemical handling equipment

Forklifts, pickers, carts, and conveyors in chemical handling plants may need to be repaired at some point. Chemical plants are also the most likely place to find highly flammable materials. Non-sparking tools must be used here.


If you want to get more information about the non-sparking tools, welcome to contact us today or request a quote.