A worker is installing a blind in a flange for blanking off the gas line to the burners. The appropriate gasket cannot be found. What should the worker do?

A worker is installing a blind in a flange for blanking off the gas line to the burners. The appropriate gasket cannot be found. What should the worker do?

• A. Proceed with the blind anyway
• B. Use a substitute gasket
• C. Do not continue installing the blind until the proper gasket can be found
• D. Delay but continue with other work

Answer: (C)

The situation tests safe practice when dealing with a critical gas-sealing component. A gasket in a flange for blanking off a gas line is there to create a reliable seal and prevent leaks. If the proper gasket isn’t available, you must not proceed with installing the blind. Using an improvised or substitute gasket can fail under pressure, be incompatible with the flange materials, or not provide the correct compression, all of which can lead to a gas leak, a fire, or an explosion. The safest course is to halt the installation, obtain the approved gasket, and complete the work only when the correct part is in place and properly torqued and leak-tested. Delaying only part of the task while continuing other work doesn’t resolve the hazard, since the unsealed gas line still poses a risk. If necessary, escalate to obtain the proper gasket and, once it’s on hand, proceed with the installation and a proper leak check.

The situation tests safe practice when dealing with a critical gas-sealing component. A gasket in a flange for blanking off a gas line is there to create a reliable seal and prevent leaks. If the proper gasket isn’t available, you must not proceed with installing the blind. Using an improvised or substitute gasket can fail under pressure, be incompatible with the flange materials, or not provide the correct compression, all of which can lead to a gas leak, a fire, or an explosion. The safest course is to halt the installation, obtain the approved gasket, and complete the work only when the correct part is in place and properly torqued and leak-tested. Delaying only part of the task while continuing other work doesn’t resolve the hazard, since the unsealed gas line still poses a risk. If necessary, escalate to obtain the proper gasket and, once it’s on hand, proceed with the installation and a proper leak check.