The Acetylene Safety Regulations (ASR) came into force on 1st October 2014.
As a training company we often encounter situations where organisations are using portable oxy-acetylene workstations that do not have flashback arrestors fitted.
The ASR includes the requirement for flashback arrestors to be fitted to stop the progression of a flame resulting from the decomposition or uncontrolled combustion of acetylene gas, which could lead to an explosion.
We also find operators attempting to use propane regulators on acetylene cylinders (see image). The ASR requires organisations to only fit gas control equipment that is designed for acetylene use.
Acetylene gas should only be used by operators who have received appropriate training in its safe use with suitably designed handling equipment.
