IAGC LAND GEOPHYSICAL SAFETY MANUAL Edition 9 ... - CGISS

9) All personnel not involved in the operation should clear the working deck.10) Personnel should not stand on, jump over or position themselves in the path ofthe deploying cables as they feed off.11) Personnel should keep clear of coiled rope. Personnel should not stand in a bightof rope.12) Working decks should be kept clear of debris and washed down afterdeployment.13) When work is complete, all tools and equipment should be stowed and secured.7.4 Air Guns and Compressors7.4.1 High Pressure HazardsAir guns are devices that rapidly release compressed air into the water creating theeffect of an explosion. To provide sufficient energy for geophysical surveys,compressors capable of generating extremely high pressures are required. Seismicsources should not be operated in the vicinity of diving operations. Consult with thediving operator to determine a suitable schedule to ensure divers are not exposed toexcessive noise.Non-essential personnel should be clear of the area.The typical operating air pressures used in most air gun systems are 70 times greaterthan those used in a car tire. Any release of air at these pressures is extremelydangerous and can tear the flesh and force dust, air or even oil particles through theskin and into the blood stream. To minimize risks associated with high air pressure,observe the following:1) Never put your hands in front of the jet of air or any pressurized discharge port.Air can penetrate into your blood vessels, causing an embolism, which can befatal.2) Only qualified persons should operate the air guns, the handling equipment andthe air compressors. All other personnel should stay clear of equipment, includinglines, rigging and booms while deploying, retrieving and working on air gunsystems.3) All personnel in areas where there is a risk of the sudden release of air shouldwear ear and eye protection while the system is operating.4) An eye wash station should be located in the gun area.5) The storage tanks, pipes, lines and fittings used to carry and control this highpressure are specialized equipment and must receive special attention.Never handle, tighten or loosen bolts or fittings or hammer any part of a highpressure system while pressure is applied.6) Pressure-relieving valves and other safety devices should never be removed ormodified, except for repair or adjustment by qualified personnel.7) Any block valves installed upstream or downstream of a relief valve should belocked in the open position.8) When opening valves, always close the valve one-half turn after reaching themaximum open position.9) Use of substandard replacement parts may be dangerous.Page 102 of 136