DGUV Information 213-013e - SF6-Switchgear and Equipment

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Abschnitt 3.9 - 3.9 Operating instructions and training pursuant to GefStoffV

3.9.1
Operating instructions must be issued for all activities mentioned. These operating instructions must contain information on the hazardous substances associated with the workplace, potential dangers to humans and the environment, required protective measures and rules of conduct, behaviour in the event of danger, first aid practices and proper waste management procedures. The operating instructions should be posted and made available at suitable locations.

Refer to the German "Operating guidelines and information for employees" ("Betriebsanweisung und Information der Beschäftigten", TRGS 555).

It is recommended that a copy of the operating guidelines be posted in the equipment room.

Sample operating guidelines can be found in Appendix 2.

3.9.2
Prior to commencing work on active electrical components in SF6 switchgear or equipment, it must be ensured that the power has been disconnected according the "5 safety rules" and secured for the duration of the work.

Refer also to Art. 6, para. 2 of the German Accident Prevention Regulations (UVV) "Electrical systems and equipment" (DGUV regulations 3 and 4).

Refer also to DIN VDE 0105-100

3.9.3
Prior to taking up their work assignment and thereafter at least on an annual basis, employees performing work tasks in or on SF6 gas compartments must receive verbal training based on the company operating guidelines and the risk assessment addressing the potential risks and required protective measures associated with the workplace or the work tasks.

The verbal training provided to employees must be presented in an understandable form and language. The time, date and content of the training must be documented in writing and verified by the trainee"s personal signature.

In addition, instructions are required if the conditions of the activity change (e.g. change of process), if other hazardous substances are used or for special reasons (e.g. after damage or accidents) as well as in the event of changes to legal and normative bases. The level of training and experience of the employees shall be taken into account in the instruction. Inexperienced employees must receive particularly comprehensive training and instruction.

Refer also to Art. 14, para. 2 of the German Hazardous Substances Ordinance (GefStoffV) and to No. 5 of the German TRGS 555 "Operating guidelines and information for employees".

Refer also to Art. 4 of the German Accident Prevention Regulations, "Principles of prevention" (DGUV regulation 1)

3.9.4
Instruction must include general consultation related to occupational medicine and toxicology for activities involving SF6. Employees should be provided with the following information in particular:

  1. 1.

    Possible intake channels of SF6 and its decomposition products (dermal, inhalative, oral)

    The main channel of intake of sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is through the respiratory tract. The large-scale absorption of SF6 through the skin is unlikely. Pure SF6 is not an irritant nor does it have a toxic effect on the human organism. A strong lung-damaging effect is to be assumed if the gas is not present in pure form but contains decomposition products or if such products have been formed by electrical discharges or fires.

  2. 2.

    Limitation of exposure through protective measures and personal hygiene

    Inhalation of the gas should be avoided. In exceptional situations (e.g. unintentional release of substances, exceeding of occupational exposure limits) respiratory protection is required. Sufficient eye protection should be worn. Use leather gloves to prevent injuries when handling pressurized gas cylinders and against frostbite caused by rapidly expanding gas. Wear protective shoes when handling compressed gas cylinders.

  3. 3.

    Effects and symptoms (acute, chronic)

    Acute:cold damage on contact with liquefied gas, at very high concentrations suffocation by oxygen displacement from breathable air
    Chronic:no evidence of chronic toxic effects from pure gas.
  4. 4.

    Occupational medical precautions must be offered if exposure cannot be excluded during activities involving the substance (precautionary measures). Occupational health precautions must be taken if the occupational exposure limit is not complied with when working with the substance (mandatory precaution).

Refer also to Number 5.2 of the German "Operating guidelines and information for employees" ("Betriebsanweisung und Information der Beschäftigten", TRGS 555).