Non-Sparking Tools: A Guide to Safety in Hazardous Environments

Non-sparking tools are essential in industries where flammable gases, liquids, dust, or other combustible materials are present. They are designed to prevent the creation of sparks, which could cause ignition and potentially lead to an explosion. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about non-sparking tools including their benefits, applications, and more.

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What are Non-Sparking Tools?

Non-sparking tools, also known as spark-resistant tools, are hand tools made of materials that do not create sparks. They are made of non-ferrous metals, such as copper alloys, aluminum bronze, or beryllium copper. These metals do not contain iron, which means they do not produce sparks when struck against another metal surface. The design of non-sparking tools also eliminates any sharp edges or corners that could cause sparks.

Benefits

The use of non-sparking tools has several benefits, including:

• Reducing the risk of fire and explosion in hazardous environments.
• Minimizing the risk of injury to workers due to spark-related accidents.
• Complying with safety regulations and standards.
• Increasing efficiency and productivity by allowing work to continue uninterrupted.

Applications

Spark-resistant tools are used in a wide range of industries, including:

• Oil and gas exploration and production
• Refineries and petrochemical plants
• Chemical manufacturing
• Mining and metallurgy
• Aerospace and defense
• Shipbuilding and marine industries
• Automotive and transportation

Types of Non-Sparking Tools

There are three main types of non-sparking tools, each made of a different non-ferrous metal.

Copper Alloy

Copper alloy tools are the most commonly used non-sparking tools. They are made of a copper alloy that contains a small amount of beryllium, which gives them the necessary spark-resistant properties. Copper alloy tools are ideal for use in environments where flammable gases or vapors are present.

Aluminum Bronze

Aluminum bronze tools are made of an aluminum bronze alloy that contains a small amount of nickel. They are ideal for use in environments where there is a risk of ignition due to friction or impact.

Beryllium Copper

Beryllium copper tools are made of a copper alloy that contains a small amount of beryllium. They are ideal for use in environments where there is a risk of ignition due to static electricity or friction.

How to choose the right non-sparking tool?

When choosing a non-sparking tool, there are several factors to consider, including:

• The type of material being worked on
• The type of work being done
• The specific requirements of the work environment
• The size and shape of the tool needed

It is essential to choose the right tool for the job to ensure maximum safety and efficiency.

Safety Tips for Using Non-Sparking Tools

While non-sparking tools are designed to reduce the risk of fire and explosion, it is still essential to follow safety guidelines when using them. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always inspect tools before use to ensure they are in good condition.
• Use the right tool for the job.
• Use the tool as intended and avoid modifying it.
• Store tools properly when not in use.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Follow all safety regulations and guidelines.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance of spark-resistant tools is essential to ensure their continued safety and effectiveness. Here are some tips for maintaining these tools:

• Clean tools after each use to remove any debris or contaminants.
• Store tools in a dry, cool place to prevent corrosion.
• Inspect tools regularly for signs of wear or damage.
• Replace any damaged or worn tools immediately.

Regulations and Compliance

When working in hazardous environments, it is important to comply with regulations and standards to ensure maximum safety. Non-sparking tools are no exception. Here are some regulations that cover non-sparking tools and beryllium:

1. OSHA’s Hand and Portable Powered Tools and Equipment Standard 29 CFR .242: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to provide workers with hand and portable power tools that are safe to use. Under 29 CFR .242(a), employers must ensure that tools are free from defects, properly maintained, and used in a safe manner. Non-sparking tools can help employers meet this standard by reducing the risk of fire and explosion.
2. ANSI Committee B107: The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Committee B107 sets standards for non-sparking tools. These standards cover the design, manufacturing, and testing of non-sparking tools to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
3. Other Regulations: Other regulations that cover non-sparking tools include those related to hazardous materials, such as the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) of the Department of Transportation (DOT), and those related to chemical manufacturing, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Process Safety Management (PSM) standard.

By complying with these regulations and standards, employers can create a safer work environment for their employees and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

FAQs

1. Are non-sparking tools more expensive than regular tools?

Yes, they are generally more expensive due to the specialized materials and manufacturing processes used to make them.

2. Can non-sparking tools be used in wet environments?

Yes, non-sparking tools can be used in wet environments, but it is essential to dry them thoroughly after use to prevent corrosion.

3. Are non-sparking tools required by law in certain industries?

Yes, some industries, such as oil and gas and chemical manufacturing, require the use of spark-resistant tools by law.

4. Can spark-resistant tools be used on any material?

No, spark-resistant should only be used on materials that are compatible with the specific tool and its material.

5. How often should non-sparking tools be inspected?

Safety and Advantages — Non-Sparking Tools

This graph shows the temperature rates of a selection of materials. The numbers for our grinder are on the left with a conventional grinder used as a comparison.

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What Are Non-Sparking Tools and What Are They Made Of?

Every professional working in the field of oil & gas knows how important it is to own specific hand tools that minimize the risk of accidents in the workplace. The safety of workers is a matter of supreme concern for every industry, and that’s why they go for tools that are spark resistant and help avoid situations like fire and explosion.

When it comes to ensuring workplace safety, investing in non-sparking tools can be the best course of action. There is a range of non-sparking tools available in the market, making it easier for you to find the ones that work best for your ATEX zone. The tools are known for serving their best purpose in industries like coal mines, oil refineries, offshore oil rigs, and others.

Now, you must be a little curious to know what is so special about these tools and what they are made of to eliminate sparks and ensure workplace safety. But before moving on to that part, let us first put some light on the brief explanation of Non-Sparking Insulated Tools.

What are Non-Sparking Tools?

Non-sparking tools, also popularly known as “spark reduced,” “spark-resistant,” or “spark-proof,” are used in working environments that contain flammable gases, vapors, dust, residues, and fluids. They prevent the occurrence of sparks, thus eliminating the risk of fire and explosions. 

For more information, please visit Non Sparking Tools.

De Neers offers the finest range of Hand Tools that are synonymous with reliability, quality, value, and innovation. The range includes tools like pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, and a few others to name. The offered tools, along with helping you maintain a safe working environment, also provide great functionality in the long run.

By now, you have gained a clear understanding of what non-sparking tools are and why it is important for professionals to use them. Let’s now move on to learn what these tools are made of.

What are Non-Sparking Insulated tools made of?

The safety tools are made from non-ferrous metals (metals that do not contain iron) like bronze, brass, copper-nickel alloys, or copper-aluminum alloys to reduce the risk of sparks while the tool is in use. The tools are even made from non-metals like wood, leather, and plastics that are spark resistant.

These tools are appreciated in the industrial sector for their ability to prevent both fire and explosion from occurring in environments that may contain flammable vapors, dust, residues, or vapors. While working in confined spaces and areas where flammable dust, gases, or liquids are present, using a non-sparking tool is the best practice.

Because the tools are made from non-ferrous metals, they are softer than the standard tools made from high strength alloy steel. They also have lower tensile strength and resistance, which makes them wear out more quickly. But they have one advantage that no other type of tool can offer, and that is they generate cold sparks with a relatively low level of heat, which is insufficient to ignite any substance.

Here is a brief explanation of tools made from different materials:

Plastic: The tools are a must-have for professionals working in ATEX (Atmospheres Explosibles) environments as they are non-magnetic and will never spark.

Aluminum Copper: The tools made from aluminum-copper alloy are lightweight as compared to the heavier copper-based alloys. They possess excellent durability and are reliable.

Beryllium Copper: The tools from this alloy are the strongest and hardest with a tensile strength ranging from - MPa. The tools are perfect for heavy-duty tasks.

Brass: The tools are a bit expensive, but worth every penny of your money. They are known for their durability and have an aesthetic shine. 

Bronze: Although the tools are conductive, they don’t spark. They can be an excellent addition to your tool kit and help you carry your tasks with ease.

How to use these tools?

An important piece of advice: Clean all your non-sparking tools thoroughly after use and ensure that they are free from any ferrous contaminants or rust, which can void the non-sparking properties of the tools. 

Also, remember not to use the tools in direct contact with acetylene, mainly in the presence of moisture, as it may result in the creation of highly dangerous explosive acetals. 

Additionally, don’t forget to frequently sharpen all the anti-spark tools following the safety procedures like protecting your face and eyes and collecting the powders with proper tools. 

Lastly, it is essential that you ventilate the premises in order to remove potentially harmful powders and vapors from the atmosphere.

These are some simple rules that you can follow to ensure the tools’ long-lasting functioning and minimize the possible dangers in the workplace.

Final Thoughts

The non-sparking insulated tools have unique properties that make them fit to use in environments that contain flammable substances. They have made the work of professionals working in industries like oil refineries and coal mines easier by helping them work safely. 

The tools promise a long-serving life if they are cleaned properly and kept free of contamination, as the same result in degrading their non-sparking ability. The non-sparking tools are the ones to go for when it comes to uplifting the safety level in your industrial working environment.

Government Requirements & Approvals

Non-Sparking, Non-Magnetic, Corrosion-Resistant Tools and Tool Kits

Recommended for use in hazardous environments where flammable or combustible vapors, liquids, dusts or residues are present.

USFA/FEMA (U.S. Fire Administration / Federal Emergency Management Agency) “Hazardous Materials Response Technology Assessment” states, “Ordinary hand tools are usually made of steel, which can cause sparks if struck, scraped, or dropped which can be disastrous in an explosive atmosphere. Tools used in a hazardous materials incident MUST be constructed of non-sparking, non-ferrous, non-magnetic corrosion resistant metals.”

OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) document “Hand and Power Tools” states, “Iron or steel hand tools may produce sparks that can be an ignition source around flammable substances. Where this hazard exists, spark-resistant tools should be used…”

Ampco Non-Sparking, Non-Magnetic and Corrosion-Resistant Hand Tools conform to Federal, GSA, Military, as well as other international standards. Non-sparking or intrinsically safe tools are required and/or recommended many Federal agencies including OSHA, the Department of Energy (DOE), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) and Supervisor of Shipbuilding & Repair (SUPSHIP) to name a few.

AMPCO Beryllium Free Tools are backed with a Lifetime Warranty and are approved by Factory Mutual for use in hazardous environments.

In general, Non-Sparking Tools should be used in any environment where ignition sources are a concern. Applications include, but not limited to:

Maintenance and Repair Operations (MRO)

Collection, Holding and Transfer (CHT)

Hot Work

Work in Confined Space

Transportation (airports, railroads, tanker trucks, shipyards), Chemical, Petrochemical and Gas Operations

Military

City, State and Federal Governments (utilities, waste management, Hazmat, WMD)

General Dust Environments (grain, mining, paper/pulp mills)

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Non Sparking Tools Suppliers. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.